The mystery of RSI.

A computer-related health epidemic known as repetitive strain injury (RSI) is rampant in Australia and threatens to overwhelm the workers' compensation system. RSI is a label given to a variety of painful, debilitating conditions believed to be caused by repetitive movements of the hands or arms. In Australia, the latest wave of RSI complaints is centered among female office workers who develop symptoms as a result of extensive typing at computer keyboards. In an analysis of this epidemic, we examine the nature of RS l and its known correlates with individual health and personality, ergonomics of computing, and work context. Based on available evidence, we speculate as to the reasons for the emergence of RSI in Australia. We argue that RSI is an extreme illustration of how the social context of work and technological change defines and influences the nature of health problems.

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