Prolonged computer use, repetitive work, or a fixed posture are now common parts of daily life. It is not surprising that a large portion of the working population experiences complaints in the arms, shoulders, or neck. Each year, millions of people are estimated to develop issues referred to as RSI. The severity can vary greatly: from mild, temporary discomfort to long-lasting pain and loss of strength that significantly limits function.

Those who experience RSI complaints want one thing above all: to recover as quickly as possible and prevent further damage. In this blog, we explain what RSI is, why this term is used less in the medical field, and how complaints develop. We also discuss the role of rest, posture, and movement, and explain how a brace can aid recovery and reduce symptoms. Finally, we provide practical guidance for choosing the right brace and preventing future RSI complaints.

RSI in Brief

RSI stands for Repetitive Strain Injury. It refers to complaints caused by performing the same movements repeatedly and for long periods, often combined with poor posture and insufficient recovery time. Common examples include working with a keyboard and mouse, but production work, assembly, or prolonged use of hand tools can also lead to RSI complaints.

Symptoms mainly occur in the hands, wrists, forearms, elbows, shoulders, and neck. Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, tingling, loss of strength, or a feeling of fatigue.

Why the term RSI is used less

In the medical field, the term RSI has been criticized. The word “injury” implies tissue damage, which is not always present. In many cases, no detectable damage exists, but muscles, tendons, or nerves function less efficiently temporarily due to overuse.

RSI is also often used as a catch-all for complaints not always caused by repetitive movements. Working for long periods in a static or incorrect posture can also cause symptoms, even when movement is minimal.

For these reasons, healthcare professionals increasingly use the term work-related musculoskeletal complaints. In the Netherlands, the term KANS is also used.

What is KANS?

KANS stands for Complaints of the Arms, Neck, and/or Shoulders. This term was introduced to provide a broader and more precise description of work-related complaints. Internationally, the CANS model is used (Complaints of the Arm, Neck, or Shoulder).

Although KANS is medically preferred, RSI remains more recognizable for many people. Therefore, this blog uses the term RSI, with the caveat that it covers a broad spectrum of work-related complaints.

Which complaints fall under RSI?

RSI is an umbrella term encompassing both specific and non-specific complaints. Specific complaints have a clear diagnosis, while non-specific complaints consist of pain and loss of function without a clear medical abnormality.

Examples of specific RSI-related conditions include:

• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis)
• Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Trigger finger
• Frozen shoulder

Non-specific RSI complaints often present as dull pain, fatigue, stiffness, or a heavy feeling without a clear cause found during further examination.

Recovering from RSI complaints

Recovery starts with understanding the cause. RSI almost always arises from a combination of overuse, repetition, insufficient recovery, and poor posture. Therefore, it is important to reduce the load while allowing the body to recover.

Rest without full immobilization

Rest is essential for overuse, but complete immobilization is usually unnecessary and sometimes undesirable. The goal is to reduce or temporarily stop the movements causing complaints so the affected joint can recover. In more severe cases, certain activities may need to be avoided temporarily in consultation with a doctor or physiotherapist.

Take regular breaks

For mild complaints, taking extra breaks can make a significant difference. Frequent short breaks reduce continuous strain on muscles and tendons and help prevent worsening of symptoms.

Work in a natural posture

The human body functions best in a neutral posture, meaning joints are minimally twisted or forced. A common example is using a standard computer mouse, which places the wrist and forearm in a rotated position. Ergonomic aids, such as a vertical mouse or an adapted keyboard, help improve posture and reduce complaints.

The role of a brace in RSI complaints

A brace can be a valuable aid in recovering from RSI complaints. It is an accessible tool that can help reduce pain, prevent overuse, and support better posture.

Limiting painful movements

For wrist complaints, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or tendon overload, a wrist brace is often used. These braces limit movements that cause pain and give the joint more rest. Depending on the complaint, options include:

• Rigid brace: largely immobilizes the joint
• Semi-rigid brace: restricts specific movements
• Elastic brace: provides light support and compression

ProBrace.nl offers various wrist and hand braces suitable for RSI-related complaints, both for daily use and computer work.

Supporting and correcting posture

For complaints in the shoulders, neck, or upper back, posture often plays a key role. Posture braces and shoulder braces help position the body better. Some braces actively correct, while others act as reminders to encourage the body to adopt a better posture.

This not only reduces pain but also raises awareness of poor posture patterns.

Preventing RSI complaints

Once RSI complaints have occurred, the risk of recurrence is higher if the cause is not addressed. Prevention is therefore as important as treatment.

Vary your tasks

Alternating tasks and changing posture regularly reduces one-sided strain. Even short movements, like walking or stretching, can help prevent complaints.

An ergonomic workspace

A well-arranged workspace supports a natural posture, including:

• An ergonomic office chair
• A sit-stand desk
• An ergonomic mouse and keyboard

Combined with conscious work breaks and, if needed, a brace, this can help reduce RSI complaints structurally.