Question

QUESTION 1

Explain what is meant by musculoskeletal injury (MSI) or repetitive strain injury (RSI). Give some examples of this type of injury. According to Quinlan, Bohle and Lamm (2010) what are the most effective approaches to prevent and treat MSI/RSI?

Answer 1

The musculoskeletal injuries are those types of injuries which tend to damage the muscular or skeletal system and is caused due to the injury caused mostly by strenuous activity. In this muscle and skeletal system is damaged due to wear and tear caused due to straining and excessive stress application. There are several disorders which collectively tend to damage the bone or tendon, tissues, muscles and blood vessels. Some of the example of musculoskeletal injuries are:-

Carpel tunnel syndrome – This is also called as median nerve compression that leads to causing tingling sensation or weakness or numbness. This is majorly caused due to due to stress and pressure on the median nerve and this nerve runs along the length of the arm and enters the carpal tunnel. As this nerve is compressed, it tends to cause numbness.

Ligament sprain – This sprain is caused due to tear in the ligament. The sprain is caused mostly due to sudden twist in the ligament or when a person falls suddenly twisting the muscle or ligament. This is most common in sportsperson and it tends to cause pain and inflammation around the area.

Osteoarthritis – This is a type of arthritis due to the wearing down of the cartilage that provides the protection and cushion to the bone ends. They tend to increase the pain around the joint, causes tenderness, loss of flexibility, swelling etc.

The repetitive strain injury which is caused to the musculoskeletal system or the nervous system due to long term use of a certain area or compression of area due to constant position for long time.

According to Quilan, Bohle and Lamm, there are various ways by which the musculoskeletal injuries or repetitive strain injury can be treated:

i) It can be greatly reduced by minimizing the occupation hazards which can be done by creating a comfortable environment for the employees. There are many workplace injuries which tends to cause these conditions and hence through proper hazard management, these injuries can be prevented.

ii) Every individual must take care of their own health and safety and by ensuring this, they can reduce the injuries. According to them, it is not the system which is responsible but individuals who are unable to take proper responsibility for their own health and safety.

iii) There must be increase in psychological well being which helps in ensuring better physical well being. It is important to start working out so that the muscles and system are less prone to injuries.