My right arm is sore from the wrist to the shoulder. The pain is quite sharp and whilst not agonizing it`s close at times. I`m thinking that I`ve been on a computer for about 4 hours a day for the last 10 years and that perhaps I have an RSI type thing happening.

Anyone else have a similar problem? Anyone have a solution they can offer?

I`m going to try and limit my computer access to half an hour a day,so I may not post in Funtriv for a few days but I would be interested in peoples comments.

My eyes are really sore whenever I look at a monitor as well btw, I think I may need to be upgraded!

Advil, Ice, Sleep> in that order!

We can't offere medical advice here of course and if you have a problem it needs to be checked by a health professional. Having said that...

How is your neck? Could you have damaged that in any way, for instance a trip to the dentist with a prolonged session having your head held in an unnatural position? It could be like a nerve being pressed or trapped in some way.

I have pain from shoulder to wrist, but I just attributed it to age and what the doctor said was probably burcitis in my shoulder. I'm NOT giving up the computer. (But I do take ibuprofen when it starts aching and a heat pack feels wonderful on my shoulder).

DEFINITELY need to see a professional(as stated by Sue), but having been a Registered Nurse for 20 some years, I would question Carpal Tunnel problems. This would coincide with the RSI and amount of time on a keyboard. Poor posture at a computer puts a HUGE amount of strain on the shoulder and neck. These both have a direct affect on arms as well. I use soft ice packs and there are some good OTC anti-inflammatories out there.

Roos, I suffered from RSI problems for a few years. The only thing that works for me now to keep the pain away is working out. As long as I go to the gym once or twice a week, I can sit at the computer for hours on end nearly without any pain. When I get lazy and stop going to the gym, I'll be fine for a week or two and then the RSI will come back.

Okay, silly question here. RSI???

Repetitive Strain Injury.

- Because this is an international site and is used by members of all ages, "teen speak" or "chatspeak" like "wassup", "4", "pls", "u" and other abbreviations and acronyms is not appropriate. For many of our users, English is not a first language.

Morrigan

Morrigan, I'm well aware of that rule, as I am a moderator here at FT, AND my native language is not English. RSI, however, is a normal English word (although it might be unknown to those who have never had anything to do with it). It is definitely not chat speak.

No, but it is an acronym. And many people don't understand what it means.

I was told, very explicitely not to use ANY acronyms.

Why should I be made to follow the rule if others don't?

Morrigan

Thank you Leau. I knew it was something common, and having to do with the discussion, but just could not come up with it. And you are correct. It is a very common abbreviation here in the United States. To me, more an abbreviation than an acronym.

Back on topic, I hope your arm is getting better Roos.

Same here Roos. Hope your arm gets better.

Thanks for the replies people,I`ve taken all on board and will certainly take some action now! Thanks numbers I hope your arm gets better as well.

If you're going to spend leisure time on your PC you should be comfortable.
I sit in a recliner with my display on a desk to my right at the end of the armrest. The keyboard on my lap and the mouse pad and mouse on the armrest.
And my big fat TV in front of me. The only thing that is askew is that you may want to skooch left and face the display more directly to prevent neck discomfort.

I'd advocate that too wcfields. Comfort is worth much consideration. A computer chair with slightly padded arms, a mouse mat with a gel wrist support and a wrist support for the keyboard cleared up a painful wrist for me. I find a footrest good for general sitting posture too.

Can I just stress once more that we cannot give medical advice, and this includes recommending which medication to try.

Thanks.

Perhaps there is an Alexander therapist near you, it's worth checking out. This kind of therapy addresses this kind of problem and has greatly helped many, including myself.
Gentle movements to music can also be tremendously therapeutic for loosening up tense muscles. Also rest, extra special care about posture and alternating and pacing activities using that arm. If you don't already use an ergonomic keyboard I strongly advise it. I really hope you feel better.
I'd also avoid working in a A.C. chilled room if at all possible, or if that's the work situation, wear long sleeves. The muscles you use a lot won't like a 'wind chill' factor on top of the repetitive strain.

The proper etiquette if you are going to use acronyms is you place the acronym in brackets after the term it is being used for then you can use the acronym anytime after that. For the current example: Repetitive Strain Injury(RSI), that way people can refer back to what you are talking about.

Exactly Sue! Instead of asking advice, perhaps the original poster needs to see a specialist. Pain is always an indicator of a problem and who better to diagnose and offer proper treatment than a medical professional? I can tell you of my experience, but then it is my experience. Be on the safe side and don't take chances!