It all started with a sore wrist…
As a creative professional, my work has always been a source of joy and fulfillment. However, this passion comes with its challenges, particularly when it led to a repetitive strain injury (RSI) in my wrist. Initially, it was just a nagging pain—a whisper telling me to take a break, which I stubbornly ignored. But as the weeks went by, the whisper turned into a shout that I could no longer overlook.
The pain intensified, spreading and embedding itself as a constant reminder of my oversight. Like many in creative fields, I fell into the trap of pushing through discomfort, prioritizing deadlines over health. This oversight, unfortunately, led to a long-term battle with chronic pain, exacerbated by long hours of sitting at my desk, my posture unchecked and my movements unmoderated.
RSI is a common plight among creatives, yet it's often overlooked until it burgeons into something more severe. My journey began with that subtle wrist pain, which I later learned could have been addressed much earlier with proper ergonomics, regular breaks, and perhaps some professional advice.
This experience has been a wake-up call about the importance of workplace ergonomics and listening to one's body. I've learned that managing pain is not just about treatment but about prevention and lifestyle changes. Integrating regular stretches, adjusting my workstation, and being mindful of my body's cues are now part of my daily routine.
For anyone sitting at a desk for prolonged periods, whether you're an artist, writer, coder, or any kind of creative, remember: your health is your most valuable asset. Early intervention is key to preventing a niggle from becoming a nightmare. Don't wait until the pain is shouting at you; respond to the whispers.
My top tips for managing RSI
Optimize Your Workspace: Make sure your workspace is set up to support your body correctly. An ergonomic chair that supports your back, a desk at the right height, and a keyboard and mouse positioned to keep your wrists neutral can make a huge difference. I would also recommend using mousepads or cushions to help support your wrist, and keyboard cushions. Check out the ones I use here
Embrace Regular Breaks: Integrating short breaks into your workflow isn’t just good for your body—it also refreshes your mind. I recommend setting a timer to remind you to stretch or walk around every hour. I do 30 min work 5 min break and stretch I have an app that reminds me every half hour see here
Seek Expert Advice Early: If you start feeling discomfort, consult with a health professional like a Physio Therapist. Early intervention can prevent a mild issue from becoming a severe one.
Exercise and Strengthen: Regular exercise that strengthens your core and limbs can help support your body against the strains of prolonged sitting and repetitive motions. I do alot of yoga and stretching, yoga helps with the amount of sitting and really helps release all the tention in my body.
Stay Mindful and Listen to Your Body: Learn to tune into your body’s signals and respond with appropriate actions, such as adjusting your posture, modifying your setup, or simply resting.
Use a writst Brace: If you are experiencing pain and have to continue working through it I higly recommend using a wrist support while you work and then a brace while you sleep, especially when your doing big hours, here are the ones I recommened: Wrist Support Wrist Brace
Heats Packs Rock: Invest in a good heat pack for those long days that you can not avoid, after a big work day get a heat pack on at night, put it on your writst, elbow, shoulders, lower back where ever the pain is the worst.
Tens Machines: I have two tens machines one for my wrists which is cordless and it is amazing when I have a bad flare up and also a wired one for my shoulders, when the pain is alot and you can not take breaks from work they are a life saver.
Look after yourself and please don’t hesitate to go to your docotor if your experiencing pain in your writst, elbow, shoulders or neck, it could save you alot of pain down the line.
