Repetitive Strain Injury is a term that encompasses a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders that usually occur in sedentary workers. Musculoskeletal injuries are due to an accumulation of microtrauma caused by repeated overload of soft tissues (Ratzlaff 2007). In other words, the body's tissues are injured repeatedly, each injury being minor but, cumulatively, causing severe pain and damage to the body. Repetitive strain injuries are not a new phenomenon. It was first reported in the early 1900s as a telegraph operator's cramp in men who used Morse keys (Youngson 2005). As the name suggests, repetitive strain injuries affect those who perform repeated tasks for long periods of time. Most affected people are those who spend the majority of their working day sitting at a desk or using a computer. Other groups who frequently suffer from repetitive strain injuries are those who use a particular muscle or muscle group repeatedly, such as musicians, knitters, and seamstresses. Factors contributing to repetitive strain injuries include repeated use of the same muscles, poor posture, and prolonged sitting. Mainly manifested by pain in the forearm, shoulder or neck, repetitive strain injuries are more common in women, tall people, smokers or people who are overweight. (Youngson 2005). Symptoms include pain anywhere in the fingers, hands, arms, or upper spine. Repetitive strain injuries usually begin gradually and progress in distinct stages (Youngson 2005) and are easily manageable in the early stages. It is important to recognize the symptoms and treat them quickly. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common type of repetitive strain injury and results from compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel... middle of paper .... ..biofeedback.A third commonly used treatment is a ergonomic approach. This involves minimizing exposure to risk factors in the workplace. One method of doing this is to modify or replace the equipment that caused the injury. Many types of ergonomic keyboards are available to computer users, which reduce stress on the hands and wrists. Employee workstations can be modified to include equipment such as desks and chairs that help maintain good posture, reducing stress on the arms, upper torso and neck. Frequent breaks are also encouraged by experts to minimize strain on all parts of the body. Repetitive strain injury is a condition that can affect a person of any age, gender or race. Activities and tasks that seem insignificant, when performed repeatedly, can damage the body if left untreated..