Figures released by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) today show that the number of UK employees suffering from repetitive strain injuries (RSI) increased to 448,000 in 2003/04 and caused the loss of 4.7 million working days.
The number of employees with RSI is up 52,000 from 2001/02, according to the CSP. Of those afflicted in 2003/2004, each person took an average of 18.3 days off work.
RSI, the symptoms of which include pain and immobility in the joints, nerves and muscles from the fingers to the neck, is an often-overlooked workplace hazard, but one for which employers are still responsible.
It is caused by repetitive movements and fatigue resulting from natural stresses and strains on the body. Factors such as inadequate computer set up or repetitive or monotonous work patterns are often to blame.
According to the CSP, employers can put simple procedures in place to protect both workers and businesses by reducing sick leave and staff turnover rates. These include:
- the provision of assessments for each staff member to see what risks are associated with their jobs and how best to combat those;
- a policy of encouraging early reporting of any symptoms and provide access to appropriate help, such as consulting an occupational physiotherapist; and
- ensuring that employees are able to organise their work and take regular breaks.
“Employers can make a big difference to the health of their workers, while at the same time improving the productivity and profits of their business," said Jacqui Smith, chair of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Occupational Health and Ergonomics. "Pain or discomfort caused by upper limb disorders can lead to more sick days and low motivation.”
“These disorders can largely be avoided and prevention is always better than cure. Improvements can easily be made, starting with some steps that can relieve stress on the arms, shoulders and neck,” she added.
