A guide to surviving RSI

It's no secret among my friends and family that I have RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) due to computer use. I haven't blogged about it because, well, it's personal, and because I didn't want to jeopardize any chance of future employment. But I periodically get asked for advice on how to deal with RSI pain and for whatever reason I'm feeling more confident about sharing this.

Doctors

You should see a doctor. Don't expect a cure, but it's important to rule out any more serious diseases that your RSI might be a symptom of. Additionally, RSI specialists can guide you on your options for treatment, and run interference between you, your employer, insurance companies, and those requiring prescriptions.

In New York there are a number of RSI specialists:

• Mount Sinai - Irving J. Selikoff Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine
• Miller Healthcare Institute for Performing Artists
• Marcus Pain Institute

Ergonomics

A consultation from an occupational therapist can help a great deal. Where as a doctor will ask you to describe what you do, an occupational therapist will observe what you actually do. The difference might be quite important in finding treatment. Additionally occupational therapists will have more specific advice on ergonomic equipment purchases.

Equipment

Keyboards

There are a lot of keyboards on the market, expect it to take some time to find the right one for you, but again don't expect a miracle cure.

Pointing devices

Mice are a disaster, ergonomically speaking, lots of people like trackballs as a replacement. I loves me my Wacom Graphire tablet.

Speech Recognition

Speech recognition is one of the most powerful equipment options, but with great power comes a big learning curve. The technology is effective enough to allow you to dictate most documents, emails, and blog posts. But don't expect Star Trek like accuracy.

Even though Windows Speech Recognition has come a long way, for those with typing injuries it's still not good enough and Dragon Naturallyspeaking is really the only option worth considering. But make sure you get a good microphone.

Treatment

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is frequently prescribed. As with nearly everything related to RSI YMMV, so make sure your therapist is familiar with RSI injuries. In NY, Joint Effort Physical Therapy seem to have a clue.

Acupuncture

American Style Acupuncture Physical Medicine, developed by Dr. Mark Seem can be very effective in alleviating pain

Surgery, Drugs, Chiropractors

Be skeptical.  For surgery recommendations in particular, get second and third opinions.