Repetitive Strain Injury: Age, Sex and Activity Patterns

Abstract

Age, sex and activity patterns of 30 females suffering from repetitive strain injury (RSI) were studied by employing a 21 item questionnaire, comprising questions related to the amount of time the subject spent in one week performing work‐related, household and leisure activities. The subjects, diagnosed as non‐inflammatory RSI, were selected from a large public hospital. The results indicated that RSI is significantly more common in females; that the right hand is affected significantly more often than the left; and that the disease is most prevalent in the 30 year age group. The results also indicated that the homemakers spent significantly more time (p<.05) in household activities than full‐time workers. Young age group workers (18–28 yrs.) spent significantly more time (p<.05) in work‐related activities than older subjects (29–48 yrs.). Based on these findings, suggestions for further research are offered.