We’ve now looked at how to keep Repetitive Strain Injury at bay with a healthy workstation and how to treat the muscle trigger points that refer pain. Next we’ll show you some great stretches to help keep RSI at bay by loosening and strengthening your forearm muscles.
To stretch your flexors, hold your fingers and turn your palm outwards. Straighten your arm and then pull your fingers back using your other hand. Do not overstretch — avoid applying too much force too quickly.
Another useful flexor stretch is to interlock your fingers in front of your chest, straightening your arms and turning your palms outwards. Again, take care not to overstretch this area by applying too much force too quickly.
The best way to get maximum benefit from the extensor stretch is to hold onto your fingers while straightening your arm and then pulling your fingers towards your body. As with the flexor, do not overstretch.
Our forearms, wrists and fingers comprise a multitude of small muscles, tendons and ligaments and any RSI issue may respond well to finger stretching. Place your fingertips together and push your palms towards each other, but once more be careful not to overstretch.
Another stretch you may want to incorporate into your routine is the rotating neck stretch. To do this, stand upright while keeping your shoulders still and turn your chin towards one shoulder. Do not let your chin fall towards your the shoulder and keep your head upright.
These are just a few of the many stretches that can help anyone at risk of RSI, but there are a dozen more which you can do while sitting in front of your screen. If you’d like to find out about these, just download our great guide, 3 Steps to Healthier Computing, or contact us at The Wells Clinic.
