Repetitive Strain Injury: Age, Sex and Activity Patterns

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.