MIT Medical Sponsors Series on Repetitive Strain Injuries

Sally Ciampa

Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) stem from a combination of 
intensive computer work and improper posture and work habits. If you use 
a computer, you owe it to yourself to learn about RSI and techniques for 
its prevention.
 
A good resource on campus is the MIT Medical Department, which has 
been educating the MIT community about RSI for several years. This fall, 
their Health Education Office is sponsoring a series of free seminars on 
RSI. A fee-based course on Ergonomics (cosponsored by the Environmental 
Medical Service) will also be offered.
 
Free Seminars
The following seminars will be held in E25-111 from noon to 1pm.

* Wrist and Relaxation: What is RSI? October 18

An occupational medicine physician reviews the causes, symptoms, and 
current thinking on the treatment of RSI. Topics include factors 
leading to increased incidence; warning signs; adjustment of 
workstations; and habits to minimize strain and manage the symptoms 
of RSI.

* Proper Adjustment of a Computer Workstation, October 25

This seminar shows you how to recognize computer and keyboard 
arrangements that can lead to RSI and how to correct them. Examples 
and case studies are used to illustrate key concepts.

* Occupational Therapy and RSI: Prevention and Treatment, November 1

This session reviews the definition of RSI, as well as its causes and 
prevention. It then focuses on proper body and hand positioning and 
prevention exercises.

* Appropriate Adaptive Equipment and Workers' Compensation, November 8

Discussion centers on procedures and policies for identifying 
appropriate adaptive equipment for those disabled by RSI. Workers' 
compensation issues are explained, including coverage and the 
compensation process.

Fee-Based Ergonomics Course
This course, led by Dr. John Kella, will be held in 11-206. There are 
two sections on the same day - from 9am to noon and from 1 to 4pm. The 
fee is $120; to register, call x3-1316.
 
* Computer and Office Ergonomics, November 14

Emphasis is on typing techniques for safe, efficient computer use. 
Training includes individual videotaping of head and body movements 
at the computer, plus electronic myographic feedback or biofeedback, 
which focuses on muscle relaxation during computer use. Participants 
receive a book of photos and graphs, plus reference charts of 
stretches.

Related Publications 
Two IS publications, Repetitive Strain Injuries (IS-13a) and 
Computers and Health Resources at MIT (IS-13b), address RSI issues. 
To view them, click on the "Computers and Health" link at
  
http://web.mit.edu/ist/pubs/pubs.html

To request paper copies, call x3-5150 or send mail to 
<sendpubs@mit.edu>.