Occupational Overuse Syndrome, also known as RSI is the discomfort (and even sometimes severe pain) resulting from excessive muscle tension and stress. Initial problems may go unnoticed for a time. They are due to muscle tension restricting the through flow of blood causing the muscle to quickly run out of stored energy. It then switches to inefficient anaerobic metabolism causing painful waste products.

We see many OOS patients in osteopathic clinics. The hands on approach gves access to specific areas of muscle tension and strain. This together with time spent with patients provides more specific insight into where the true cause may lie.

By feeling the tension in the muscles it is often possible to find out how far the problem has progressed and to localise the particular areas of concern. It also helps when combined with all the information you have provided, to recommend specific changes at work. All factors will be taken into account. This may involve us working with OSH, ACC, your local doctor or any other relevant specialists.

Ergonomic changes to take direct strain off muscle groups. Your osteopath will advise you of suggested alterations to your workstation. Our Work Stain injuries leaflet available at the clinic offers some basic advice. For more complex changes OSH or an outside consultant may be required.

Aerobic type exercise is extremely important to increase the circulation to the muscles in question. The normal scenario in OOS is a restricted flow of blood due to tight contracted muscles. Exercise helps to improve the oxygen flow via the blood. For upper body problems, lower body exercise such as walking is often advantageous.

Relaxation techniques are useful to prevent the habitual tension that manifests itself in the muscle. Stress is a common aggravator of symptoms. Frequently the OOS sufferer is somebody who is conscientious and takes a lot on board, at work and /or home. Breathing exercises, visualisation or meditation are all useful in relaxing chronic tension and helping the flow of blood.

Stretches help to normalise the muscle tone releasing some of the chronic contractions that cause aching and soreness. They need to be done constantly to have any real benefit.

Hydrotherapy
The use of wheat bags, hot water bottles, bathers or showers all aid circulation, relaxation and help to ease discomfort. The hot packs should be applied twice daily 10-20 minutes minimum.

Micropauses are essential to give the muscles chance to relax and allow the circulation to flow. When a muscle is contracted to only 50% of it's capacity the circulation is almost cut off completely. It then has to operate anaerobically ie. without the ability to get oxygen to the cells. Pauses to roll the shoulders, circulate the hands and give the muscles a brief rest all aid recovery and prevent the onset of symptoms.

Job variety is recognised as being an essential element in the onset and continuation of symptoms. This allows different positions to be adopted and prevents the stress of boredom.

Regular breaks - Getting away from the usual activity even to walk to the water machine, photocopier etc gives the muscles and joints a break from constant precise or repetitive movements.
Management create clear lines of reporting. Two or more supervisors can create conflicting deadlines. Knowing the order of priority is essential. Sitting and having lunch at your desk is a definite No-No!

Diet - smoking and excess weight slow the process of recovery. Eat a variety of foods inncluding plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Learn to say 'NO' It's important to understand that job stresses and deadlines are possibly the greatest contributing factor to the onset of OOS. Too many managers, demands on your time and a conscientious manner all lead to the build up of tension. Understanding your limits helps prevent tension build up.

To reach a full diagnosis, your osteopath will need to know about your job, for example:

• Is your work repetitive?
• Do you have much heavy lifting?
  
• Do you have to bend frequently?
  
• Do you have to work in an awkward posture?
  
• Does your work involve frequent finger, hand or arm movements?
  
• Do you have any work breaks?
  
• Are you working in bad light conditions?
  
• Do you sit down at work & for how long?
  
• Do you spend a great deal of the day on the telephone?
  
• Are you expected to work to deadlines?
  
• Of the tasks you perform, which cause you the most discomfort?
  
• Previous injuries that may have contributed to your current pain?
  

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