Occupational Health Hazards (OHH) or Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI)
This ailment is caused by long duration and improper use of computers, continuous engagement in sports, music and like professions. RSI occurs when the prolonged physical movements damage nerves, muscles, tendons and joints. The RSI is categorized into three – Tendonitis, Cervical & Lumbar Radiculopathy and Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. Now look at these three.
Tendonitis : The structures which connect the muscles to the bone is called Tendons. Stress causes inflammation and swelling to the tendons. This state is Tendonitis.
Cervical & Lumbar Radiculopathy: The cartilaginous disc-like structure between the vertebrae helps the nerves move freely between the vertebrae. The compressed state of cartilaginous disc causes unwanted pressure on nerves. It results in pain, mostly in the neck and the lower back, which is medically called Cervical and Lumbar respectively while the compression of nerve root is medically known as Radiculopathy.
Nagging pain is the first symptom of RSI. Tightness, stiffness, paresthesia (sensations like burning, pricking, tingling etc, especially during night), coldness of the limbs etc will follow. If not timely prevented or treated the result may be permanent disability. The following course is capable to prevent RSI (OHH vis-à-vis computer:
The wrest should not rest on the key board of the computer. Ensure it is straight. Be in correct posture in the chair while on work. Use the mouse and key of the computer gently. Be seated within safe distance from the monitor – minimum 2 feet. Have intermittent relaxation on work. Computer work and phone attendance should not go together. Stop working while attending the phone call and ensure phone is not tucked between shoulder and ear. Reduce the brightness of the monitor to have minimum glare to protect the eyes. Close the eyes occasionally. Position the feet flat on the foot rest or floor, ensuring hips and legs are perpendicular to the spine.
If RSI is already affected follow the following course :
1 Give rest to the organ as it is a prime requirement. 2 Employ physio-therapy. 3 Take massages and fomentation. 4 Administer Nasya for disorders to hands or shoulders. 5 Administer medicines through rectal route for disorders to legs or lumbar region. 6 Take oral medicines such as yogaraj goggulu, panhatiktha ghrutha guggulu, maharasnadi kwath etc.
