RSI Risk Factors

There are many factors that may influence the severity and occurence of RSI, some of which are detailed below. Note that this list is not exhaustive and trying to treat your RSI using this list is not to be recommended. Always see a health professional if you think you have RSI.

Excessive Computer Use

Its hard to define 'excessive' as it varies from person to person but anyone using a computer for more than 3 hours per day could be deemd 'more at risk'

Intensity

Intense users (e.g. data entry) are more at risk than occasional computer users and this can also vary at different times of the year (e.g. end of year reporting)

Poor Posture

This is one of the key factors that seems to influence RSI. If you sit properly and have a comfortable workstation you are much less likely to develop RSI

Stress

It may be obvious but people who suffer high stress levels are more likely to be intense computer users and take fewer breaks

Telephone Use

If you have a phone crunched up under you chin and you are using a computer at the same time you're just asking for trouble. A headset will work wonders in this case. Talk to your employer about this

Eyesite   

Similar to telephone use above, if you can't see the screen you'll tend to lean forward with resulting poor posture. Again , talk to your employer

Genetics

Some people are just naturally predisposed to developing this kind of injury