Maintaining awareness of RSI

Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is still widespread and must not be forgotten, campaigners are warning in the run-up to RSI Awareness Day at the end of this month.

RSI affects a range of workers, particularly construction workers (especially in the skilled metal and electrical trades), health and social care professionals and typists.

In the Health and Safety Executive’s 2004/05 survey of self-reported work-related illness, 375,000 people said they suffered from upper limb disorders caused by work.

The Central London RSI Support Group, backed by the Musicians Union and other trade unionists, is organising an RSI awareness day on Saturday 25 February. Entrance is free and open to anyone with an interest in the subject.

The event will feature presentations and workshops on treatments, therapies, personal injury claims, voice recognition software, ergonomic computer keyboards, the Display Screen Equipment Regulations and other topics. Physiotherapists will also be on hand to give advice.

Physiotherapists’ union the CSP is keen to emphasise that, as well as relieving pain, trained physios can devise a treatment programme based on RSI sufferers’ posture, lifestyle and work patterns – and can also visit workplaces to advise on ergonomic issues to prevent RSI.

For more information, visit www.londonrsisupportgroup.org.uk