RSI is not
one condition
Repetitive strain injury (RSI) is a label, not a diagnosis. Behind it can exist various distinct conditions — each with a different cause, a different structure affected and a different treatment. Getting the right therapy starts with finding out exactly what is wrong.
Treating RSI requires
unravelling it first
When a patient is told they have repetitive strain injury (RSI), they are being told that repetitive activity has caused their symptoms. What they are not being told is which structure is affected, why it has been affected and what specifically needs to happen to fix it. That distinction matters enormously for treatment.
Ms Razo is a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) with specialist expertise in upper limb conditions caused by repetitive use and overload. She has the clinical skills to identify exactly which muscle, tendon or nerve is involved, differentiate between conditions that present similarly and design a treatment programme targeted at the actual cause. Many patients who have struggled with RSI for months or years find that a precise diagnosis changes everything.
Conditions behind
the RSI label
The following are among the most common conditions that are grouped under RSI. Each is distinct, each responds differently and each requires an accurate diagnosis before treatment can be effective.
Degeneration or irritation of a specific tendon from overuse. The tendon involved determines the treatment. Common examples include flexor and extensor tendinopathy of the wrist and forearm.
Compression of the median, ulnar or radial nerve at various points along the arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel syndrome and radial tunnel syndrome all fall under the RSI umbrella, but require distinct approaches.
Overuse of the forearm extensor tendons causing pain on the outer elbow. Frequently mismanaged when not properly diagnosed, leading to a prolonged and unnecessary recovery.
Overuse of the forearm flexor tendons causing pain on the inner elbow. Often occurs alongside other conditions and requires accurate differentiation from referred nerve pain.
Inflammation of the tendons running along the thumb side of the wrist. A specific and diagnosable condition, often lumped under RSI, that responds well to targeted treatment.
Overloading to a singlular muscle or groups of muscles can produce pain, tightness and weakness in the arm and hand. Symptoms often affect task performance during activities of daily living.
Friction between two groups of extensor tendons in the forearm, producing pain and swelling above the wrist. Often confused with deQuervain's but requiring different management.
A broad category covering conditions caused or aggravated by occupational tasks. Accurate diagnosis of the specific structures involved is essential for effective treatment and workplace advice.
Frequently asked
questions
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RSI, or repetitive strain injury, is not a clinical diagnosis. It is a general term used to describe pain caused by repetitive movement or overuse. The actual cause of your symptoms could be one of many specific conditions, each requiring a different treatment. A specialist assessment will identify exactly what is wrong.
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Rest alone is rarely the answer for most conditions that fall under RSI. Some conditions require specific loading and exercise to recover. Others need splinting, manual therapy or treatment directed at a nerve rather than a tendon. Without a precise diagnosis, recovery is largely guesswork.
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Yes. Symptoms that seem to be in the arm, wrist or hand can sometimes originate from the cervical spine or thoracic outlet. Ms Razo's assessment covers the full upper limb and will explore whether your symptoms are coming from where they appear to be.
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Prolonged computer use is a common contributing factor in many upper limb conditions, but the relationship is rarely straightforward. Posture, workstation setup, technique and underlying anatomy all play a role. Ms Razo will assess the full picture and provide specific ergonomic guidance as part of your treatment.
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Not necessarily. Depending on the diagnosis, it may be possible to modify your work tasks or environment rather than stop entirely. Ms Razo will advise you honestly on what is needed and help you find a practical approach that supports recovery without unnecessary time off.
Understanding your
RSI
A plain-language guide to what RSI really means, the conditions behind the label and why getting a specific diagnosis is the key to effective treatment.
Read the patient guideCannot attend
in person?
A significant proportion of RSI assessment and treatment can be delivered effectively via video. Ms Razo provides virtual appointments to patients across Northern Ireland, the UK and internationally.
Learn about virtual therapyFind out what is
actually causing it
Same-week appointments available in clinic in Belfast, via video or as a home visit. No GP referral needed. Book a specialist assessment and get a real diagnosis.