Abstract
In this review article on Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) it is argued that mouse arms, cashier arms, writers cramp and many other forms of labour related complaints of pain and dysfunction of the upper extremities have a common ground in poor muscle stiffness regulation. After presenting an overview of the currently known etiological causes for RSI, the authors give an outline of their own view on the origin of RSI. According to this view poor ergonomic conditions in labour situations such as high levels of stasis in arm and neck musculature are often exaggerated by psychological and task stress. Whereas under normal conditions stiffness regulation is an appropriate means for coping with stress, it is proposed that enhanced levels of limb stiffness when muscle and limb stiffness is already high may lead to muscle and nervous damage. Implications for therapy and prevention are discussed in the final part of the paper.
