We all spend too much time on our computers or texting on our cell phones. But since the likelihood of us clocking less hours on our cell phone or laptops is probably not going to change in the near future, we have to take necessary precautions to ensure that our bodies stay strong as we work more.

Just as sitting too long at our office desks makes us more stiff in our shoulders and hips, keeping our hands positioned over the keyboard can have the same effects. Injuries or pains that result from repetitive movements whether it’s typing, texting, playing tennis for 15 years or knitting are called Repetitive Stress Injuries, or RSI for short. They occur because the repetitious motion pulls on the muscles and tendons that surround the joint. In the case of computers, our wrists become overused and often mild to severe forms of Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can manifest.

Wrist pain is very common and there are many causes of this problem. The causes range from performing a few too many repetitions of the biceps curl in the gym to chopping vegetables at home. These injuries range from repetitive stress injuries to sprains, fractures, and arthritis. Wrist pain is treated just like any other similar injury and can gradually get worse overtime if not properly taken care of. Again, most wrist pain problems or injuries are treated by rest, combination of ice and heat, wrist support, anti-inflammatory medication, and even rehab if the problem or injury does not fade over time. If you are experiencing any of the following please contact your physician: