RSI
Michigan Health Care Providers
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Self Referred
Ann Arbor Therapeutic Massage Clinic 2358 Carpenter Road Ann Arbor MI 48105 734-677-0030
This clinic can do neuromuscular, myofascial, postural analysis, tendonitis
treatment.
The all the therapists are Nationally Certified in Therapeutic Massage and
Bodywork.
Patient Recommendation
Dr. Lynn Beals-Becker, D.O. Center for Rheumatology and Integrated Health 4470 Jackson Rd. Suite 101 Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103 734/213-2996
Dr. Beals-Becker is a specialist in Osteopathic manipulation therapy, and is the
most RSI-knowledgeable doctor I've seen in the area. She has been the only
practitioner to diagnose me, correctly I believe, with median nerve entrapment.
She spends an hour on an initial visit and does a very thorough upper body
examination. The specific stretch she recommended for me led to a very large
improvement in my symptoms even after three years of "trying everything".
Patient Recommendation
Linda Sinkule, Rolfer Ann Arbor 734-320-8705 cell, 734-996-2625 office Linda Sinkule, email: lsinkule@comcast.net
Linda practices Rolfing, a form of deep-tissue massage. She was able to
substantially correct my posture and had a positive impact on my RSI
symptoms.
..., if you ar at MSU, you could go to the MSU school of Osteopathic medicine, ask for the department head Dr. Greenman and have him refer someone for you. Oteopaths that do manual work have an entirely different view than mds.
Also, there aere some Bowen Technique practitioners in Berrien Springs. That is a technique that can help. Go to www.bowtech.com for practitioner referral info.
Self Referred
Formerly with Occupational & Environmental Medicine Clinic University of Alabama at Birmingham
Victor S. Roth, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.C.O.E.M. Clinical Assistant Professor University of Michigan Occupational Health Services (MWorks) 2098 South Main Street Ann Arbor, Michigan 48103-5827 Phone: (734) 998-8788 Voice Mail: (734) 998-6656 Facsimile: (734) 998-6562 E-Mail: vroth@umich.edu
I don't mean to be long-winded, but I felt it was important, especially
if you get many hits from people seeking help for work-related RSI, that
I needed to explain in some detail about the specialty of occupational
medicine and a little about myself.
First, to answer your question, as part of the University of Michigan
Occupational Health Services, yes, I am accesible to the general public
for work related injuries, work related or environmental exposures,
potential work related diseases (including such things as occupational
asthma, possible work related cancer) by consutation. Though we do have
contracts with certain companies to see those particular company's
injuries, physicals etc., based both on our reputation at the University
of Michigan, and the reputation and acheivements of our occupational
medicine group of physicians, including myself, we frequently get called
upon to do consults and depositions in the field of occupational
medicine (for such things as RSI, chemical exposures, asbestos,
disability evaluations etc).
To give you a little background, not only for me, but in the specialty
of occupational medicine:
I am residency trained (at the Unviersity of Michigan) and board
certified by the American Board of Preventive Medicine (ABPM or
www.abprevmed.org)
in the field of Occupational Medicine. Part of doing the residency
includes getting a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree.
Many physicians who claim to be specialists in the field of
"occupational medicine" just happen upon that type of practice as a way
of getting more business and thereby more income. However, many of
these physicians do not have the proper training to practice in this
field. There are only a relatively small number of physicians who have
actually completed a full residency in occupational medicine, which is a
2 year program after one also completes a one year clinical internship
(total of at least 3 years).
Our (occupational medicine) board certification is by the American
Board of Preventive Medicine, which is one of the only 24 specialty
boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties (see
www.abms.org
and click under Preventive Medicine). A board approved by ABMS differs
from the so-called self designated boards which are set up by various
and sundry people without regulation and without approval by ABMS - such
as the "American Board of Environmental Medicine."
"The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) is the umbrella
organization for the 24 approved medical specialty boards in the United
States. Established in 1933, the ABMS serves to coordinate the
activities of its Member Boards and to provide information to the
public, the government, the profession and its Members concerning issues
involving specialization and certification in medicine. The mission of
the ABMS is to maintain and improve the quality of medical care in the
United States by assisting the Member Boards in their efforts to develop
and utilize professional and educational standards for the evaluation
and certification of physician specialists."
In additional to clinical practice and consultations, many of us are
involved in research and writings in our chosen field. I myself have
written numerous book chapters and have served on government (CDC)
panels. If you do a search (using my name) on the internet, you will
likely turn up some of these items.
Thanks for reading this and I hope it helps in your understanding of
occupational medicine.
Hellerworker trained by Sharon Butler:
Anne Carbone, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Registered Nurse
Ann Arbor, MI 313-662-5770
AOEC Member
Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
Wayne State University /Dept. of Family Medicine
4201 St. Antoine, Suite 4-J Clinic Founded 1984
Detroit, Michigan 48201
see also these clinics.
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
AOEC Contact: Raymond Demers, MD, MPH
313-577-1420 FAX 313-577-3070
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Patricia Isaacson
The Point Myotherapy Ctr., Ltd.
1356 Grebe
Highland, MI 48357
810-887-9880
AOEC Member
Occupational Health Service
St. Lawrence Hospital Work and Health Institute
1210 W. Saginaw Clinic Founded 1988
Lansing, Michigan 48915
AOEC Contact: R. Michael Kelly, MD, MPH
517-377-0309 FAX 517-377-0310
There is a chiropractor in Lansing that treats CTS/RSIs.
Tim Dumin, Doctor of Chiropractic Lansing Chiropractic Clinic
I checked his credentials via Chiropractic America referral service. I don't
know him personally.
His phone # is 708-895-3228.
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Richard & Diane Kmiotek
Myotherapy Center for Pain Relief, Inc.
5825 McDowell Rd.
Lapper, MI 48446
810-664-4322
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Robert W. Howell
Myotherapy Center of Michigan
24525 Southfield Rd., Ste 109
Southfield, MI 48075
810-443-0796
Patient Recommendation
My experiences with Rolfing have been truly life-changing. After 5+ years of
tennis&golfer's elbow in both arms, I'm about 95% pain free. As far as pain
from Rolfing goes, I wouldn't describe it that way, rather as some discomfort
and muscular stress. Of course, from my point of view, nothing can hurt more
than 5 years of disability - others may be more sensitive.
For anyone in SE Michigan who's interested, I can recommend Kathleen Strauch
(248-354-3484). With me, she has also used some techniques she said she learned
from Richard Rossiter(www.rossiter.com) specifically for my elbow problems.
The first two-hour session did more for me than 5 years of shots, surgery, PT,
phonophoresis, iontophoresis, acupuncture, NSAIDs ... the whole list of
treatments most long-time sorehanders have been through.
Oklahoma Health Care Providers
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I would recommend the Oklahoma City Hand Institute, run by Dr Houshang Seradge.
They seem to be very knowledgeable about strain injuries. Dr Seradge invented a
2 1/2 minute stretch for workers to use before & after work & an abbreviated
version for breaks, b/c he was tired of performing CT release only to see
workers return, reinjured. Please don't be put off by the name "Hand Institute".
Just call them & tell them your shoulder hurts from your mouse and ask if they
see many patients with similar problems. I think they should be able to help
you.
AOEC Member
WorkMed, Inc.
9330 E. 41st Street, #102 Clinic Founded 1947
Tulsa, Oklahoma 74145-3718
AOEC Contact: James W. Small, MD, MPH
918-627-4646 FAX 918-669-4425
Steve Snyder, MD
Tiari A. Harris, MD, MPH
Lloyd Anderson, MD
Virginia Health Care Providers
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Patient Recommendation
Jeffrey Brown, Doctor of Chiropractic
Alexandria, Virginia
(703) 370-5335
Patient Recommendation
I've been going to Paul Salbert, D.O. 5213 A Lyngate Court, Burke VA 22015. (703) 978-0050. He seems good so far, though it well probably be a while before I notice major changes with the tendonitis.
Also, I found this website for the Virginia Osteopathic Association:
http://www.voma-net.org/
Patient Recommendation
Peter Bower, M.D., Osteopath, 2200 Old Ivy Road, P.O. Box 5752,
Charlottesville, Virginia, 22905-5752, (804) 296-4160
Email:
pbower@virginia.edu
I noticed that the Virginia section did not list a very knowledgeable and
fantastic doctor, only the 2nd doctor I have seen that understands my
problem. I travelled all the way up to Virginia from Florida to see him. I
had read his articles in 2 newsletters, online in the RSI Newsletter and also
in the ARMS RSI Newsletter. His advice seemed to sum up my problem, so I
took the plunge and saw him over the course of 2 appts/2 days. He provided
me with an osteopathic adjustment and a very keen understanding and knowledge
of my pain and trigger points. He is only the 2nd doctor that has been able
to reproduce my pain exactly on physical examination. His name can be found
in the newsletters mentioned above, and he also has a Home Page on the web at
http://galen.med.virginia.edu/~pjb3/ComplementaryHomePage.html. Whether
local or travelling from afar, it is worth the visit to see Dr. Bower.
Patient Recommendation
If you are looking for a massage therapist in the Virginia area for your RSI, please check out the following web site:
http://www.massagetherapyofnova.com/
I tried this therapist (Toni) one week ago and I am very impressed by the results. She kept talking about the twists that she was finding in my connective tissue in my chest and my neck. For the last one week, the persistent burning sensation in my chest is gone after only one session with her and my neck feels a lot better. It might be a little too early to judge, but so far the results are fantastic. So if you're a around here, and looking for some relief, she might be able to help. (I have no personal interest in promoting her business).
(She only does one hour sessions and charges $85 for one-hour, expensive but effective so far)
Patient Recommendation
Wellness/massage therapist -- Kay Schubert, Health Designs,
703.709.9199. She works out of her apartment, just off wylie Avenue in
Reston. I don't know if she takes insurance, if you qualify for that.
After seeing doctors and therapists for over a year, she showed me how I
was using my hands incorrectly (I probably never would have gotten
better without this knowledge).
Chiropractor -- Glenn Loebig, Loebig chiropractic, Great Falls, Virginia
-- 703.757.5817. Glenn has adjusted my wrists many times, the bones in
my wrist were out of alignment, and are slowly staying more in place,
and of course were working on posture.
Rolfing Therapist -- Rich Goodstein, he is an advanced rolfer and he
comes from California about once a month. His e-mail address is
richrolf @ gmail . com. Rich has helped me achieve posture changes and
provided many suggestions on dealing with my situation.
Doctor -- Dr. Margit Bleecker, Center for Occupational and Environmental
Neurology (COEN), Baltimore, MD,http://www.coen1.org/ - she specializes
in RSI, and her therapist, Sherri Barnes, is extremely knowledgeable
about RSI conditions. Dr. Bleecker recommended the nerve glide
stretches and yoga as the only exercise I am to do with my hands, as
these are the only things that have proved to be helpful.
Patient Recommendation
Trinity Physical Therapy, PC
10560 Main Street, Suite PH#9
Fairfax, VA 22030
703-385-8232
Owned by Patrice Winter
Trinity has four physical therapist that provide myofascial treatment. All
are very knowledgeable in RSI. All are able to pick up where the other has
left off. They encourage rotation through the therapist so that each has
the opportunity to provide input into solution. This is a wonderful
facility. The therapist also work on postural correction, breathing, and
functionality. The atmosphere is very relaxing and everyone is friendly
and helpful. And they have Saturday hours!!
NOTE: THIS CLINIC IS NO LONGER OPEN, HOWEVER PATRICE WINTER APPARENTLY
NOW PRACTICES AT:
Ballston Location: Hand-N-Hand Therapy, LLC 4141 North Henderson Road, Plaza Suite 8 Arlington , VA 22203 Phone 703-527-8446 FAX 703-527-1752 Email info @ handnhandtherapy . com Website: http://www.hand-n-hand.net/index.shtml
Patient Recommendation
Sharon Gehrman, OTR, Occupational Therapist, Dominion Physical Therapy/
Franklin Clinic. She works mornings in Springfield office, afternoons
in Herndon office. She is very experienced, and good at
explaining better body postures, and how to exert force,
and what positions/actions to avoid.
The Franklin Clinic, 13350 Franklin Farm Rd, Suite 120,
Herndon, VA 22071 703-481-0222
Hellerworker trained by Sharon Butler:
Leesburg- Margie Hyer, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner. Ph: 703-777-6081
Patient Recommendation
Body Mechanics Physical Therapy 703-737-3697 P.O. Box 4205 Leesburg, VA 20177
Currently located in a gym Bodywork's Health Club but may move to
another location in Leesburg soon.
PT has extensive post graduate course work on RSI, has good insight on
arm use, ergonomics, recommendations for holistic care including diet,
lifestyle suggestions. Treatment is a combination of hands on work,
specialized exercises, movement education, neuromuscular reeducation.
This PT worked closely with Dr. J. Balbus in DC for 2 years, and is now
located about 45 minutes from Washington, DC--seeing both of these guys
together is ideal.
Awesome to be typing again due to this PT.
Patient Recommendation
I have seen two
different people that have helped me with the RSI in both forearms. The
Myofascial Pain Treatment Center in Springfield, run by Nancy Shaw, is
where I was first introduced to Trigger Point Therapy and understanding how
to begin undoing the damage to my arms. But the majority of my improvement
(I would say I am 75 percent better) has been the result of seeing Dr. Tae
Jong Oh, a chiropractor in Annandale.
Myofascial Pain Treatment Center 6810 Lois Drive, Springfield, VA 22150 (703) 922-8214 Primary Health Center Dr. Tae Jong Oh 7258 Maple Place, Annandale, VA 22003 (703) 354-8111
It took a long time for me to recover since I was pregnant when I first
began seeing Dr. Oh (pregnancy only antagonized all of the factors causing
my RSI), but amazingly I did see progress while pregnant. Since my baby was
born last March, I have seen a lot more improvement. To help you compare, I
will tell you that when I began seeing Dr. Oh I could barely do
anything--cut food, blow-dry my hair, sweep, push a stroller (never mind
typing!). My husband had to take time off of work to stay home and take
care of our first child, while I tried to rest. I could not hold my baby
without terrible pain in my arms. I was using voice recognition software at
that time, but now I can check and write emails and work for a couple hours
at time on the computer before my symptoms begin showing up again. I can
carry my daughter and care for her in all the ways that I was unable to do
with my son.
Nancy Shaw and Dr. Oh are colleagues, so don't be surprised of one refers
you to the other. She specializes more in the muscle work, while he works
with all aspects of the body.
Patient Recommendation
I heard of this guy from my neighbor-paramedic who recommended
him for his professionalism/intelligence/competence/and personalbility. He
is a full MD who was trained in acupuncture in CA.
Price was around $80 per visit, double for initial visit. He is
extremely respectul and nice, and professionally reassuring.
Dr, Richard Steinberg, MD
Diplomate, Amer. Board of Emer. Med.
Licensed Med Acupuncturist
Phlebologist
8075 Leesburg Pike, Suite 780
Vienna VA 22182
(703) 556-4491
Patient Recommendation
Thomas Sheppler, MD (arm surgeon who doesn't do surgery unless necessary)
Vienna, Virginia
(703) 242-6363
Patient Recommendation
Dr Jeffrey Kamper, Chriopratic 703-878-0700 Woodbridge, Va 22192 This as a great group and professinals who really care and help in the treatment in carpal tunnel. Dr. Kamper gave me more support and professional advice (special diets, excercise, and vitamins). He would also write doctors note: limiting your duties at work. This office will even call you at home to see how you were doing
Florida Health Care Providers
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Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Dee Winslow, R.N.
Southwest Florida Myotherapy
848 Miramar Ct.
Cape Coral, FL 33904
941-945-7613
Patient Recommendation
I have been under the care of Dr. William J. Myers, Orthopedics, for the
last three years. I am very pleased with his care and treatment of CTS.
His address and phone number are as follows:
350 N. Clyde Morris Blvd.
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
904/238-3290 or 904/238-3283
FAX 904/238-3250
1-800-321-1227
Patient Recommendation
Dr. Nasser Eftekhari, MD, PA
Diplomate, Amer. Board of Physical Medicine & Rehab.
8600 SW 92 St
Ste. 201
Miami, FL 33156
(305) 273-5577
This Dr. did my nerve conduction studies, but was not my primary care
physician, so I didn't get to know him that well. Nonetheless, he was
great at listening, explaining, and giving hope, and he was open to a
variety of treatment options.
Carol Cornelison, Licensed Massage Therapist
Miami Massage
(305) 661-3590
Carol does Swedish, Deep Tissue Massage, and Reiki; she uses a variety of
treatments and can suggest exercises, recognizing that different people
respond better to different treatments. She focuses on underlying
alignment problems which can cause the nerve entrapment associated with
repetitive strain injuries. She's great, but this method of treatment does
take time.
Patient Recommendation
Dr. Steven Mirabello New Port Richey, FL 813-848-4249
he graduated from Harvard and does all the orthopedic stuff
for the Toronto Bluejays... His bedside manner is wonderful, and he has made me feel a lot
better.... He is located in New Port Richey. He is listed under his name or Florida Joint
Replacement Center.
I also see another Dr. there for my CTS, his name is Sang Choi, (he speaks english). He is a
highly respected hand surgeon, but I think my hands were too far gone for him to really help
much.
I also saw a Dr. Greene in Tampa (THOMAS LEE GREENE MD.STE 560 2727 W MRTN L KING JR BLVD TAMPA , FL 33607 )
for a second opinion on my hands, (workman's comp idea)
he is located near St. Joseph's hospital on Martin Luther King Blvd. He was pretty
cool, and completely agreed with Choi.
Patient Recommendation
1. Scott Wittmer, D.C., The Wittmer Clinic, 5435 Lake Howell Road, Winter
Park, FL 32792, (407) 677-7272
I have found a fantastic chiropractor who is carrying the load of RSI
patients for the Orlando area. He has diagnosed and treated my problem when
all others couldn't/wouldn't. Even the W/C chiropractor before him did not
fully treat me and just adjusted my neck even though I had entire upper
extremity pain. Dr. Wittmer has treated ny neck, shoulders, arms, wrists,
and also has a carpal tunnel distraction machine. This doctor stood up for
me and admitted I had a problem and needed treatment. In his own words, "I
treat patients, not insurance companies."
2. Greg Johnson, Licensed Massage Therapist, 251 Maitland Avenue, Suite 111, Altamonte Springs, FL
32701, (407) 834-4422
I also have a great massage therapist who provides neuromuscular massage and
also understands those trigger points, the pain, and how to relieve the pain
and improve circulation.
Patient Recommendation
CHIROPRACTOR
1. Mark Harris, Doctor of Chiropractic, CCSP
Goldenrod Groves Shopping Center
5270 Aloma Avenue, Suite 162
Winter Park, FL 32792
(407) 657-2433
He is a great chiropractor with emphasis in quick reduction of symptoms
and
prevention of further injury.
BIOFEEDBACK
2. Timothy E. Fennell, Ph.D. (c)
1870 Aloma Avenue, Suite 110
Winter Park, FL 32789
(407) 629-2883
Biofeedback - he is a sports psychologist specializing in stress
reduction, and is
very mind/body aware.
I'm sorry I have not really found a good orthopedist in the area, I have one
that is pretty good, but as far as a Worker's Comp case goes, he does not
believe in RSI so I can't recommend him.
NEUROSURGEON
Frank Hellinger, MD
2501 N. Orange Avenue, #307
Orlando, FL 32804
He believes in RSI, but I have not been able to use him for Worker's Comp so
I cannot vouch for how he rates people. One lawyer did recommend me to him
however.
Patient Recommendation
The Chiropractor
that I am seeing is Lisa Calhoun in Panama City, FL. She is wonderful!!! If
any of you are in the Panhandle of Florida...she is the one to see.
Patient Recommendation
...he sent me some information on an RSI doctor that was trained by Peter (Edgelow)
in his method for treating RSI patients. He is in Pensacola, FL. I spoke with him
today and they are trying to get an RSI center established at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola.
... The doctor I spoke to was Layne R. Yonehiro. He seemed extremely knowledgeable about
RSI and the run around with doctors that RSI suffers have to put up with. I
have hope again that a doctor might actually be of some help.
I'll let you all know how things go when I see Dr. Yonehiro.
Self Referred
John A. Prokopiak
I would like to be added to you site, I am a DC in Sarasota FL that
specializes in Extremity and soft tissue injuries. I use Active Release
Techniques. My web site is www.prohealthcenters.com
E-mail Dr.JohnPro@home.com
Call toll free 1-888-JOHN PRO
(564.6776)
Patient Recommendation
In florida i found dr. john prokopiak
from your internet service.
i had been diagnosed with cts, pinched nerves and such from various
doctors, had recieved various pain medication and physical therapy with
no results. my condition lasted for five years. dr. prokopiak used the
active release tecnique for my treatment for approx. three months then
he prescibed of all things yoga. i have not been back for treatment now
for over three months. i am painless and still taking yoga. dr.
prokopiak is very knowlegable when it comes to rsi patients. i found him
to be honest and i would like to recommend him to other people who have
rsi injuries.
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Andrea Johnson Muscles In Motion Myotherapy 1440 J.F.K. Causeway / 79th Street, Suite 415 Miami Beach, FL 33141 305-865-3197
Patient Recommendation
I know it is a ways to go but there is a doctor in St. Petersburg that
specializes in Overuse syndromes. He has a book on the subject. His URL is
www.computerhealth.com .
Dr. Ricky Lockett
(727) 896-8686 new office in St. Petersburg
Patient Recommendation
ROBERT JOHN BELSOLE MD 4 COLUMBIA DR STE 730 TAMPA , FL 33606 FAX 813-259-0885
Self Referred
I am a Physical Therapist with 12 years experience. I have a private practice in Tampa, FL, and I do work with musicians and artists. May I be listed on your website? Thanks for your consideration. I enjoy reading the material that is posted. "Ginger" Hoang C. Le, PT, MPH Physical Therapist- Preventive Health Advocate Ginger Fitness & Rehabilitation, Inc. 16039 Penwood Drive, Tampa, FL 33647-1139 813-631-7790 www.GingerFitnessRehab.com PT@gingerfitness.com Outpatient Physical Therapy at Home Corporate Wellness Programs Sports Biomechanics- Performing Arts Evaluation Private Pay, Medicare, Insurance Accepted
Minnesota Health Care Providers
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Patient Recommendation
I saw Dr Kevin Wall through Health Partners, think he is really from St. Paul
Ramsey clinic, St. Paul, now called Regions Hospital. He was good, supportive
very occupational medicine focus.
However, I got my diagnosis, (pronator teres syndrome) from
Dr. Richard Hills,Physical Therapist and Doctor of Chiropractic, Director, Rehabilitation Clinic Northwester College of Chiropractic 2501 West Eighty-Fourth Street Bloomington, MN 55431-1599 Phone 612-885-5404
Very unusual combination - I think he's Very Good.
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Thomas G. Benson
Benson Pain Prevention Center
504 108th Ave., NW
Coon Rapids, MN 55408
612-755-1366
Patient Recommendation
Dr. Paul Gannon Cardiovascular/Thoracic Vascular Surgeon Vascular Surgery Associates 3960 Coon Rapids Blvd., Suite 216 Coon Rapids, MN 55433 612-427-8547 Dr. Robin Crandall Orthopedic Partners Fridey, MN.
MSM Appendix B
Instrumental Artists Hotline and Clinic
Sister Kenny Institute
800 E. 28th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55407
(612) 863-4495
Director: Dr. Jeanine Speier
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Lois C. Sjogren
Minnesota Myotherapy and Fitness
601 W. 28th St
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-872-6935
MSM Appendix B
Mayo Clinic
200 Second St.
Rochester, MN 55905
(5O7) 284-2511 X 7129
Contact: Dr. Ann Schutt
Patient Recommendation
I live in Rochester, MN. I have seen Dr. Peter Amadio. An orthopedist at
Mayo Clinic for the last 5+ years. The telephone number for the general
appt office is 507-266-5800. They will lead you through the process to
get an appt with a doctor. The general telephone number for Mayo Clinic
is 507-284-2511.
Patient Recommendation
I highly recommend Dr. Peter Amadio, hand surgeon, of the Mayo Clinic in
Rochester,Mn. He has done 5 different hand surgeries for me all successful
and one for kienbock's disease on my son also successful. A very caring and
talented surgeon. Mayo Clinic appointment nu. 507-266-5800
AOEC Member
Columbia Park Medical Group
Occupational Medicine Department
6401 University Avenue, NE #200 Clinic Founded 1980
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55432
AOEC Contact: Donald Johnson, MD, MPH
612-572-5710 FAX 612-571-3008
Dorothy Quick
There is a Rolfer who is extremely knowledgeable about RSI in Minneapolis.
Her name is Siana Goodwin and she can be reached at 612-722-0049. Siana is
also an instructor for the Rolf Institute and has been in practice for many
years. She has used her RSI techniques to save companies many millions of
dollars in Worker's Comp insurance premiums by eliminating RSI's from the
workplace. I highly recommend her.
Sharon Butler, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner
Patient Recommendation
I am in St. Paul. I highly recommend Orthopaedic Sports Inc or OSI. They have
offices in Lake Elmo/Woodbury, White Bear, Maplewood, Forest Lake and
Stillwater. I have seen Maureen Scanlon who is a hand/arm therapist. She is
wonderful.
Patient Recommendation
My hand surgeon is Dr. Matthew Putnam..University of Minnesota..He is the
director of hand surgery at the U. I have been treating with Dr. Putnam since
Jan. 2001..So far so good..He really takes the conservative approach first..The
hand and therapy center there is also wonderful He works at the orthopaedics
and therapy center and there phone is 612-273-9400...
Patient Recommendation
I highly recommend OSI which is a PT center in the twin cities. I see Steve (back) in West St Paul and Maureen in Maplewood/Stillwater and White Bear Lake. OSI= Orthopedic Sports Inc.
Patient Recommendation
I didn't get the original message for this, but I'm in Roseville. My
therapist is Sue Wagner at Metropolitan Hand Therapy and Rehabilitation.
They are in downtown St. Paul: 651-223-5406. I believe she is a PT/CHT.
I've been very pleased with her. She spent a long time diagnosing my
problems and was able to recreate all the painful spots I was having. We've
done a number of things that have improved my condition (although it's not
gone yet). There's also a bunch of other therapists at that clinic who
would probably be good too.
In the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, I was quite happy with my PT/CHT
(certified hand therapist) Sue Wagner at:
Metropolitan Hand Therapy and Rehabilitation Ritchie Medical Plaza 310 North Smith Ave Suite 130 St. Paul, MN 55102 651-223-5406
"In the Twin Cities I strongly
recommend a deep tissue massage therapist named Ken Youngberg . . ."
Ken Youngberg Therapeutic Bodyworks 13911 Ridgedale Drive, Suite 255 Minnetonka, MN 55305 Phone: 952-835-1531 Pager: 612-329-3327 Fax: 952-835-1453 E-mail Us: info@kytherapeuticbodyworks.com Website: http://www.kytherapeuticbodyworks.com/
I do not have any knowledge of local Rolfers. I am not sure what your
insurance or budget allows, but there are several places to go for massage.
I have a friend named Karen Kullman. The last I heard she was with Body
Balance Healing Center: 651-222-2218. (400 Selby in St. Paul, right off of 94
and Kellogg/Dale) I know her personally and she is great.
There is also a WONDERFUL massage school that specializes in ALL kinds of
massage. It is Sister Rosalind School of Massage. Since they have supervised
students, the cost is lower. 651-228-0960 (St. Paul). They also have
locations in Highland Park, Burnsville and Maplewood.
The 3rd alternative I could find is The Minneapolis School of Massage and
Body Work. (220 Lowery Ave NE in Mpls.) 612-788-1320
I am willing to bet both schools will have some ideas about Rolfers and may
even have a few themselves. (Also, you could try it at the schools for less
and if you do not like it, you're not out too much money.)
AOEC Member
Ramsey Clinic
Occupational and Environmental Medicine &
Occupational Medicine Residency Training Program
640 Jackson Street Clinic Founded 1979
St. Paul, Minnesota 55101-2595
AOEC Contact: Paula Geiger, Administrative
Secretary
612-221-3771 FAX 612-221-8848
Steve Kirkhorn, MD
Patient Recommendation
My Chiro's name is Dr. Tim Whelan in White Bear Lake, MN. He has been
practicing for only about 4 years or less. I think that is a good thing, in
my case, because his recent schooling included dealing with RSI versus just
the standard car accidents and hereditary problems. He charges $240 for 12
sessions, cash. Otherwise the fee is higher because he has to type up all the
insurance co reports, etc, plus the delay in payment. He truly has the goal
of eliminating pain in people with RSI. I highly recommend him.
Patient Recommendation
I have Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, wrist and elbow tendinitis, ulnar nerve damage and Myofascial Pain Syndrome. I HIGHLY recommend my Sports Medicine Gp in White Bear Lake, MN. His name is Dr. David Thorson. I do not know if he is taking on new patients right now, though. It cannot hurt to call. 651-426-6402 (option #3). He is with MinnHealth. I have seen 2 decent ortho guys. One is Dr. Jeff Husband. He is affiliated with Park Nicollet Clinics. He is very blunt and fair. The other is an IME doc, HOWEVER, he is very good at surgery and is fair. His name is Dr. Mark Falconer. I do not know what clinic he is affiliated with. You could call EvaluMed (in Edina) and ask. Your best bet is to find a Sports Medicine GP. They tend to know more about RSI's and dont cost the insurer as much as a specialist. If you need the name of an AWESOME physical therapy clinic in the Cities, I recommend OSI or Orthopaedic Sports, Inc. They have offices in Woodbury, White Bear, Stillwater and Forest Lake. Worth the drive. (I recommend Maureen and Steve P.)
Ontario Health Care Providers
Return to Index
Patient Recommendation
I had some success with a sports medicine doctor near K-W, Ontario.
John P. Schaman
RR#2
Breslau, Ontario
N0B 1M0
Dr, Schaman utilizes phyisotherapy and electro-magnetic laser therapy. He
has an excellent facility and also tends to be cheaper than Toronto and
area clinics with like treatments. He has also treated a number of Olympic
athletes such as Victor Davis, the Canadian Women's Alpine Ski Yeam...a
tennis player named Lendl and many more. I did not find any success at his
clinic due to my type of injury but I am sure that you will.
BTW, in his office he states that Victor Davis broke a world record and won
a gold medal with numerous RSI one of which was rotator cuff tendinitis....
Patient Recommendation
in Guelph the best person to see is Dr. Margo Mountjoy
who works out of the South City Physio clinic (519 763-2885) as well as
her own practice (519 763-9554). Most people swear by her.
This information comes from a trusted person in Guelph who saw her.
MSM Appendix B
Performing Artists' Health Program
Centre for Human Performance and Health Promotion
Sir William Osler Health Institute
565 Sanatorium Rd.
Hamilton, Ontario L9C 7N4
Canada
(416) 574-5444
Director: Dr. John Chong
I do not know of a list for musician, but I do know a rehab specialist in
Hamilton Ontario Canada. His phone # is 1 905 - 574-5444 and his name is
Dr. John Chong - he is a musician himself, expereinced and RSI on the piano
and has a grand piano in his clinic. He sees muicians from around the
world.
Self-Referred
According to two studies I have read, on CTS and massage therapy, massage
significantly improved the condition of over 90% of subjects. In the study,
half were on disability and after three months treatment, they were all
able to return to work (some only part-time.) In about 75%, it was
completely cured. Compare this with the rate of those with improvement after
surgery(40%). I suggest trying less invasive procedures like massage
therapy, or physio before resorting to surgery. Physiotherapy has a
lower rate of improvement than massage therapy, but it has the advantage of being
mostly covered under OHIP. (Musicians, I find don't always have the money
for MT.) If physiotherapy doesn't work, it at least does no harm. If
you have the money or workplace extended health care, then go straight to a massage
therapist after seeing your doctor. It is your best bet. The results in
my practice back up what I have read.
Brad Wilson RMT The Holistic Centre (Hamilton) 324 James St North Hamilton, Ont. (905) 521-9664 E-mail: bradrmt@ispnet2000.com
Self-Referred
My name is Marcy L. Hull. I am a Massage Therapist in Hamilton Ontario Canada
specializing in the repetitive strain injuries of musician's and artists.
I have completed 2200 hrs of education at Kikkawa college, one of the top
two schools in Canada. Most of my practical education came when I had my
preceptorship with Dr. John Chong at the Musician's Clinic's of Canada in both
Hamilton and Toronto. I was better able to understand the intricate
relationship of muscles, joints, nerves and other structures involved in
musicianship by studying posture and surface EMG. What I've learned most
was that the body is an extension of the instrument. When the body is
properly functioning, free of injuries and imbalances the music is better able
to flow. When it hurts to play there is a decrease in coordination, and
proprioception making musicianship a difficultly.
Music is a joy, but playing with an injury is not. I've learned that not
being able to do the thing you love because it hurts too much, permeates who
you are. That is why I have dedicated my life to studying this area of
rehabilitation. I treat all conditions related to the artist's occupation. I
customize each treatment for the individual using Swedish massage techniques,
trigger point therapy, ergonomic retraining and modified stretching. I've treated
pianists with focal dystonia, oboe players with painful ampiture, guitar players
with weak fretting hands to name a few. I feel confident in what I do and
actually have lot of fun. I love the field of rehabilitation and I love
music.
" What I have in my heart must find a way out. that is the reason for music" ~L.V. Beethoven
My stats are: Marcy L. Hull RMT Hamilton, Ontario Canada (905) 575-5985 akashasasha@yahoo.com.
Patient Recommendation
I can recommend the following physiotherapy organization for
treatment as they do trigger point therapy, surface EMG, etc. and seem
willing to find other doctors/facilities and other things to assist the RSI
sufferers.
WorkWise
1800 Bank Street, Suite 212
Ottawa Ontario K1V 0W3
(613) 731-5888
Note:Received recent information that WorkWise is
not covered by OHIP and the patient pays them directly.
Self-Referred
Stouffville Musicians’ Injuries Clinic
6710 Main Street,
Stouffville, Ontario
Canada
L4A 7W5
Tel:(905) 642-5025 FAX:(905) 642-5026
e-mail Barbara Paull: bpaull@neptune.on.ca
e-mail Christine Harrison: athletic.musician@ukonline.co.uk
For information regarding
private consultations click here.
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Paul LaForest
Canadian Myotherapy Centre
2434 Lesperance Rd.
Tecumseh, ONT
Canada N8N 2W5
519-979-7123
Patient Recommendation
Try Dr. Joe Pellino at the Soft Tissue Institute. He is (last I spoke with
him) the senior instructor for Active Release Techniques. He helped me with
my whiplash.
There is also an advanced Bowen practitioner in Toronto. Her name is Frances Tutt. Her number is 416-699-8820. I don'tknow her personally, but i do know her instructors and they're good.
Patient Recommendation
One person you might look up is a Dr Gordon Ko based out of
Sunneybrook Hospital and also has a office in Markham. He is a pain
specialist and does a lot of work on RSI. The bad news is that it takes
about 6 months to get in and see him. http://www.musclepainrelief.ca/html/dr__gordon_ko.html
Self-Referred
Physio/Rehab Inc.
300 - 920 Yonge Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M4W 3S1
Tel: (416) 315-1100
Fax: (416) 921-0569
Toll Free: 1-800-459-FEET
E-mail Dayal@Sprynet.com
Web: http://home.sprynet.com/sprynet/dayal/
Self-Referred
I am a registered massage therapist in Toronto, Canada. I have
had a clinic for performance artists for 3 years. Most of my clients are
musicians with repetitive strain injuries and compression disorders.
I have had amazing success in the treatment of RSI's, TOS and other
related problems through agressive joint and tissue manipulation and
ergonomic assesment of playing posture and muscle imbalances. Education
seems to be the key.
Susan Chapelle, RMT,LMP
40 Ellerbeck St.
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
M4K-2V1
(416)406-6803
Self-Referred
The RSI Clinic 79 St. Clair Ave E., Suite #203, Toronto, Ontario, CANADA M4T 1M6 Telephone: (416) 944-9008 Fax: (416) 944-9008 e-mail: rsi@mindbodycan.com
"The RSI Clinic at Mind Body Medicine Canada is an innovative medical clinic specializing in the assessment, treatment,
and research of Work related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSD) and other soft tissue injuries."
The co-ordinator of an RSI support group chimes in:
The RSI Clinic at Mind Body Medicine Canada is now located at ... (see update below)
... They are a terrific clinic and I highly
recommend them. Please note that they are a private clinic so most
services are not covered by OHIP. However, you can receive a thorough
medical assessment by the clinic director Dr. Heather Tick covered by OHIP.
I know that the concept of paying for health care is foreign to Canadians
but the money I spent at the clinic was money well spent. To learn more
about the clinic, check out their website at:
http://mindbodycan.com/RSI_CLINIC.html
UPDATE:
Heather Tick MD wrote: Name from....: Heather Tick MD Email from...: rsi@treatpain.ca Message......: The RSI Clinic is now part of The Integrated Pain Treatment Centre and located at 250 University Ave Toronto M5H 3E5 tel-416-944-9008 We are a multidisciplinary clinic with 15 years of successfully treating RSI. We have recently expanded our use of low level light therapy for these conditions.
Self-Referred
I have a multidisciplinary Carpal Tunnel Clinic in Toronto, Ontario. Amongst our diverse approaches to CTS we are using the CTD Mark 1. I wasn't sure there was info about it on your site. Please check my site at http://www.carpaltunnelclinic.com Best wishes Dr. Brian Kleinberg Carpal Tunnel Clinic The Dufferin Steeles Chiropractic Health Centre 1520 Steeles Avenue West, Suite 102 Concord, Ontario L4K3B9 Canada
Self-Referred
Balance Integrated Healthcare is a multidisciplinary clinic located in
downtown Toronto which includes Naturopathic Medicine, Acupuncture and TCM,
Registered Massage therapy, Craniosacral therapy, pregnancy massage, Thai
massage and monthly health seminars on a variety of topics.
Drew Nesbitt BA (hons), DTCM ............................................ Balance Integrated Healthcare 24B Liberty St, Toronto ON M6K 1A5 Tel: (416) 588 8282 Fax: (416) 588 2643 www.balanceih.com
My name is Drew Nesbitt and I co-own an integrated healthcare clinic in
Toronto Ontario called Balance Integrated Healthcare. My training is in the
field of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) where I focus on acupuncture and
pain. After my university degree (BA honours in Health Studies) where I
focused my studies on anatomy, sports injuries and health promotion, I went
to TCM college in Toronto for an additional 4 years (over 2900 hours of full
time training). I have always been involved with sports and I have been
playing guitar for 13 years so I am no stranger to the effects of RSI pain.
In my recent practice I have found acupuncture to be extremely helpful for
many types of RSI's and pain. I use many different TCM modalities in my
practice including electro-acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping therapy, Tuina
massage (Chinese massage) as well as appropriate strengthening and
stretching exercises.
Self-Referred
VOICE CARE SPECIALISTS
Ear, Nose and Throat Medicine, Video Stroboscopy, Voice Rehabilitation and Enhancement,
Speech Therapy, Vocal Coaching
Dr. Brian Hands
200 St. Clair Avenue West,
Suite 404
Toronto, Ontario
M4V 1R1
(416) 922-0070
voxcura@interlog.com
Self-Referred
I am a bass player and a chiropractor. I am getting quite a few referral from
the music community in my town. Taking care of thoracic outlet, cervical
radiculitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, etc.
Dr_John Bureau, Chiropractor
Active Health Care Centres, Tillsonburg & Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
102721.517@compuserve.com
web site.
Waterloo Office
140 Columbia Street West
Waterloo, Ontario, N2J 2Z3
(519)-746-6508
Tillsonburg Office
9 Woodcock Drive
Tillsonburg, Ontario, N4G 4L7
(519)-688-3901
Self-Referred
The Clinic of Injury and Disease Response
"...where muscles get back to work."
984 Bay Street, Ste. 704, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2A5 Canada.
phone number: 416-944-9008
e-mail: cidr@idirect.com
Web page:http://web.idirect.com/~cidr
We are a multi-disciplinary, medical clinic that specializes in RSI
Patient Recommendation
Re: Toronto, Ontario resources
At the Get A Grip workshop I attended last fall, Dwayne Van Eerd
spoke knowledgeably & was recommended by other panelists and by workshop
attendees. He's a kinesiologist with The Clinic of Injury and Disease
Response, at 984 Bay St, Ste 704, ph 944-9008.
I can recommend the Clinic for Injury and Disease Response on Bay and
Wellesley - Drs. Heather Tick and Mark Gilbert, and excellent
Kinesiologist, Dwayne Van Erd. Also Ms. Lois Singer, Speech Language
Pathologist in North York - if you are thinking of going with voice
recognition software.
Patient Recommendation
Nicola Tahair, a Physical Therapist at the Orthopaedic Therapy Clinic. There are two registered massage
therapists there too.
Patient Recommendation
Several Toronto area clinics and other RSI-related resources are reviewed in detail
at this excellent website.
Washington Health Care Providers
Return to Index
Hellerworker trained by Sharon Butler:
Anacortes- Dan Grignon, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph: 360-299-2543
Self Referred
Harmony Licensed Massage Therapy Andrew Wolfe, LMP, RC, Mms. http://www.harmonymassagetherapy.com andrewwolfe123@hotmail.com Cumulus Park Health Care Center, 16410 Smokey Point Blvd Suite 303 Arlington, WA USA 98223 360-653-4657
Licensed medical/therapeutic massage therapist 19+ years full time experience;1987. Trained US/China. American Massage Therapy Association. Deep tissue,myofascial release, somatic movement re-education,trigger point therapy and Swedish massage. I incorporated movement,manual traction and stretching, ergonomic awareness and postural/gait training.
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Roberta Fletcher
An Answer to Pain...Myotherapy
107 N. Tower, Ste. 7
Centralia, WA 98531
360-736-8219
Patient Recommendation
I have found help at:
Neuro Care Of Washington
22309- 7th Ave. South
Des Moines, WA 98198
Phone:206-870-1786 Fax 206-870-1787
Contact: AJ Terpak
They are a treatment Center Using Electro-therapy units that a patient can
use at home. They are having great results.
Bonnie Prudden Myotherapist
Cheryl Williams 5304B LakeWashington Blvd NE Kirkland, WA 98033 Phone 425-643-5319
Hellerworkers trained by Sharon Butler:
Debra Levine, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner,Registered/Licensed Occupational Therapist, Redmond, WA - 206-233-8055
Susan Kramer-Pope, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist Bainbridge Island, WA 206-780-9462
Shelley Smith, O.T., Bellevue, WA - 206-233-8055
Bothell- Linda Knickerbocker, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist, Physical Therapist. Ph: 206-823-4865
Everett- Pamela Wise, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph: 206-710-7499
Freeland- Liz Falso, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Registered/Licensed Occupational Therapist. Ph: 360-293-3174
Issaquah- Kim Illig, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph: 425-391-1883
Redmond- Valarie Keaton, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph : 206-869-1534
Renton- Harry Tweedie, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph: 206-282-8874
Seattle- Stephanie Colony, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Physical Therapist. Ph: 206-996-5187
Seattle Jacques Couturier, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph: 206-782-5890
Seattle Dorian Ford, Registered/Licensed Occupational Therapist. Ph: 206-244-HAND
Seattle Daniel Foppes, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph: 206-706-3410
Seattle Jill Green, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Registered Nurse. Ph: 206-781-3534
Mary Wallace, Seattle, WA - 206-244-2177
Seattle Steve Paschall, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph: 206-632-3593
Seattle Donna Rasplica, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner. Ph: 604-738-1081
Stephen Wallace, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist Seattle, WA - 206-244-2177
Karen Petersen, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist Seattle, WA - 206-328-5143
Maggie Meyer, Registered/Licensed Occupational Therapist,Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Seattle, WA - 206-233-1166
Seattle Diane Rose-Harr Ueis, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Registered/Licensed Occupational Therapist. Ph: 206-528-5350
Seattle Nancy Thorpe, Certified Hellerwork Practitioner, Licensed Massage Therapist. Ph: 206-523-0844
Seattle area Joseph Hunton http://www.rsi-solutions.net
Patient Recommendation
Just to give you a brief synopsis: A little over two years ago I developed
bilateral RSI that left me in chronic pain. I had little success in finding
anything that would help ease the pain or help aid in my recovery.
Fortunately, I learned about Sandy Hatton, LMP and the work she does
specializing in Aston-Patterning. During the past few months, the quality of
my life has improved with Sandy's expertise and execution of the Aston-
Patterning techniques. I know that this improvement is directly attributed to
the combinations of this form of therapy and with Sandy's diligent
professionalism and compassion.
I strongly recommend anyone who sufferer's from this condition to contact
Sandy. Her phone # is: Sandy Hatton, LMP (206) 367-5720 Seattle WA
Patient Recommendation
I recommend the Seattle Hand Group at
Swedish Hospital on James and Broadway. I had surgery with Almquist,
and I have many co-workers that have had similar success with Brockman.
Patient Recommendation
Dr. Cynthia Campbell (spelling?) of Providence Hospital. Dr. Ronald (?) Vyhmeister of Northwest Hand Surgery Clinic(?) You should be able to find them in the phone book no problem. >If anyone knows of a good doctor in the seattle area (I live in everett), please LMK.
Try Jenefer Huntoon in Seattle.Her number is 206-632-8804. Email is
JNHUN @ aol . com She is a naturopath who has a practice in Seattle. She uses a non-invasive technique aclled the Bowen technique for pain relief and injury recovery.
> Subject: Any experienced doctors in Bellevue,Redmond or Kirkland in WA
state?
Patient Recommendation
I always used Puget Sound Sports & Spine Physicians when I lived
in Seattle and had RSI. The best guy there is Stan Herring, but his
associates are also good if you can't get an appointment with him.
Patient Recommendation
I know of one rheumatologist who has a special interest in rheumatic
>conditions that occur in musicians in general and perhaps pianists in
particular. Dr. Kenneth Wilske in Seattle, has had a number of
professional musicians come to him with tendonitis and other problems. I
have the feeling that perhaps some of them were personal friends. Anyway
he has an interest and wanted to do a session on this topic at a past
meeting I was involved with. I don't know that he has any special
solutions but you could do worse than write to him. His office fax number
is 206/625-7288
Self-Referred
I have a practise dedicated to RSI prevention and treatment for
massage therapists and musicians. I have published articles and
a book on both subjects, am a massage therapist and a seasoned
musician myself, and have over 4 years experience dealing with
both populations. I can be reached at:
1315 Madison St., #242
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 328-7921
E-mail: lgreene@booksatoz.com
Lauriann Greene, LMP
Patient Recommendation
Seattle
I have found Dr. Marion Krader (pronouced Crater) to be very helpful.
University of Washington, Family Medicine Clinic. 206-548-4055. My
physical therapist also thought she (Dr. Krader) was very good.
Self Referred
I am an outpatient orthopedic physical therapist with a company,
Action Reaction Physical Therapy Inc., in Seattle, WA with a special
interest in musician and workplace RSI prevention and treatment. I am
a violinist who became a physical therapist because of an interest in
repetetive and postural related injuries associated with musicians. I
combine ergonomic postural improvement education and exercise with
manual therapy skills in a one-on-one environment. I work in a
multidisciplinary environment in a building known as Seattle Healing
Arts Center with physicians, acupuncturists, and massage therapists.
Here is my address: 6300 Ninth Avenue NE Suite 360 Seattle WA, 98115 Sincerely, Dzuka Lin, MS, PT Action Reaction Physical Therapy, Inc. www.actionreactionpt.com Phone# (206)523-6826 Fax# (206)428-2087
Patient Recommendation
Please add to your list the following MD and OT's. My physician in
particular has been supportive, knowledgable and forthright in her
evaluation of treatment options.
Elizabeth A Plotkin, MD (Internal Medicine)
Pacific Medical Center, Northgate
10416 5th Ave. NE
Seattle, WA 98125
(206)326-4147
Occupational Therapy Northwest
Ginger Pollock, OTR and Joan Kerr Neubauer, OTR
525 Minor Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 323-2000
Hellerworkers trained by Sharon Butler:
Kim Illig, Snoqualmie, WA 206-391-1883
Dorian Ford, O.T. (hand therapist - not a Hellerworker), Seattle, WA
206-244-HAND
Joseph Freeman, Seattle, WA, 206-932-5655
Patient Recommendation
Seattle:
Carol Nicholson (206-320-2404) at Providence Outpatient Therapy is a
knowledgeable and pro-patient O.T. She does on-site ergonomic evaluations,
Deep Tissue Massage, and postural suggestions. Providence has good
interaction between PTs, OTs and Sports Medicine, so they offer an
integrated program of recovery including massage, ergo-evaluation and
cardio+strengthening exercises. I have had some relief from RSI-related pain
thanks to them.
Valarie Keaton (425-869-6367) is an experienced and caring Hellerwork
Practitioner.
14777 NE 40th St., Suikte 207 (mailto:java@seanet.com)
I want to add the following to my previous recommendation for Carol Nicholson, OTRL, CHT, and Timothy Hodges, PT. The main reason I am so enthusiastic about them is this : Three months ago, I had already been having RSI related pain for about 6 months. My attending physician said there was nothing more he could do about it, and although I was pretty darn sure he was wrong, I was thinking quite seriously of changing my career away from computers. Carol helped me immensely in many different ways in cutting down the pain, and keeping it there. I cannot say my problems have completely disappeared - there is no magic bullet - but I am now able to work without significant pain. I have been fortunate in finding these great people at Providence. I only wish I had discovered them earlier. Here is what they did for me, and what they can do for other people with similar problems : i. Carol did an on-site evaluation for me. She is really good at this - I have had three different people have a look at my ergonomics. None of them came even close to solving my problems. Carol is able to bring her knowledge of the patient's exact medical situation, and provide precise fitting of the chair & table to the person. ii. Carol advised me on the right stretching exercises to do, and equally importantly, on what exercises on my previous schedule not to do. iii. Timothy Hodges is an excellent strengthening/aerobic trainer. Tim is good at devising a personal training regimen suited to your medical condition, which will strengthen those muscles which need attention, and improve overall stamina. Carol is a Certified Hand Therapist, and OT. She does dynamic postural retraining, neural mobilization, joint mobilization, in addition to stretching/strengthening of body mechanics, aerobic conditioning, and on-site workstation evaliations.
MSM Appendix B
The Clinic for Performing Artists
Section of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Virginia Mason Medical Center
1100 Ninth Ave.
P. O. Box 900
Seattle, WA 98111
(206) 223-6600
Patient Recommendation
Dr. Michael Weinstein at Virginia Mason Medical Center, which you mention
in your list of performing arts clinics, took good care of my son, a
pianist and at the time a music student at the U of Oregon, whom pain had
rendered unable to play music for five months. Hence I think his clinic
warrants the asterisk with which you denote specialists in this field.
At my sons first meeting with him, Dr. Weinstein gave him nearly two
hours of consultation and has been similarly unstinting in subsequent
meetings. I consider him an excellent physician.
The physical and occupational therapists at VMMC seemed similarly
experienced and also deserve a mention in your list of
Washington occupational clinics. As my son put it, the unhelpful
therapists at the Eugene (OR) Hand Clinic seemed to have gotten their
skills from a book; those at VMMC seemed to have written the book.
[NOTE: another patient considers it important that this glowing review
be tempered with their contrasting opinion that they found Dr. Weinstein to be
"... sorely
lacking in social skills ("bedside manner"), skills in differential
diagnosis, especially for examining someone who is in severe pain at time of
initial meeting" and perhaps not a reliable diagnostician in
cases with ambiguous origins (female adult, RSI of unknown origin), in contrast to the case above
(juvenile male with straightforward overuse injury.)]
RSI Page
Touch my hand . . .
Computer Related Repetitive Strain Injury
Copyright © 1996-2008 Paul Marxhausen. THIS DOCUMENT IS NOT AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA-LINCOLN.
"We pray with our hands and often communicate with them. We use them to eat, work, and make love. We employ them as marvelously sophisticated instruments of flexibility and strength, and when they are damaged, we anguish."
- Keith L. Moore, Clinically Oriented Anatomy
NOTE: This site is in the process of moving here and only this new location is being updated.
As more and more work, education and recreation involves computers, everyone needs to be aware of the hazard of Repetitive Strain Injury to the hands and arms resulting from the use of computer keyboards and mice. This can be a serious and very painful condition that is far easier to prevent than to cure once contracted, and can occur even in young physically fit individuals. It is not uncommon for people to have to leave computer-dependent careers as a result, or even to be disabled and unable to perform tasks such as driving or dressing themselves.
I've faced this problem myself since March of 1994, and many friends are also affected to varying degrees. I am not a health care professional, but I hope on this page to provide a very brief introduction to RSI for the benefit of students who may not be aware of the potential for a life-altering injury. It includes book references and links to Internet resources that have been helpful in educating me about this. Don't hesitate to get in touch by e-mail, but because I have to limit my own computer use, please take the time to consult the entire page and the listed materials at length first. -Paul Marxhausen
What is RSI?
Repetitive Strain Injuries occur from repeated physical movements doing damage to tendons, nerves, muscles, and other soft body tissues. Occupations ranging from meatpackers to musicians have characteristic RSIs that can result from the typical tasks they perform. The rise of computer use and flat, light-touch keyboards that permit high speed typing have resulted in an epidemic of injuries of the hands, arms, and shoulders. Use of pointing devices like mice and trackballs are as much a cause, if not more so. The thousands of repeated keystrokes and long periods of clutching and dragging with mice slowly accumulates damage to the body : another name for the condition is Cumulative Trauma Disorder. This can happen even more quickly as a result of typing technique and body positions that place unnecessary stress on the tendons and nerves in the hand, wrist, arms, and even the shoulders and neck. Lack of adequate rest and breaks and using excessive force almost guarantee trouble.
You may have heard the term Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in connection with these injuries, but in fact CTS is only a small and dangerous percentage of typing injuries. Tendinitis, Bursitis , Tenosynovitis / DeQuervain's Syndrome , Tendinosis , Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Trigger Finger/Thumb , Myofascial Pain Syndrome, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, and several other related conditions may also be involved. All of these are serious and in advanced cases can cause great pain and permanent disability. In addition, patients injured by repetitive strain sometimes develop Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), discussed here and here .
What are the Symptoms?
- Tightness, discomfort, stiffness, soreness or burning in the hands, wrists, fingers, forearms, or elbows
- Tingling, coldness, or numbness in the hands
- Clumsiness or loss of strength and coordination in the hands
- Pain that wakes you up at night
- Feeling a need to massage your hands, wrists, and arms
- Pain in the upper back, shoulders, or neck associated with using the computer.
How Do I Prevent It?
Correct typing technique and posture, the right equipment setup, and good work habits are much more important for prevention than ergonomic gadgets like split keyboards or palm rests. Figure 1 shows proper posture at the computer. ( Emerging research suggests that a monitor position lower and farther away may be better. In addition, there are other opinions about what is the "correct" position: check out these variations, which differ from Figure 1. Alternate 1 , Alternate 2 , Alternate 3 .) Note that the chair and keyboard are set so that the thighs and forearms are level (or sloping slightly down away from the body), and that the wrists are straight and level - not bent far down or way back. If the table is too high to permit this, you may do better to put the keyboard in your lap. Also note that the typist is sitting straight, not slouching, and does not have to stretch forward to reach the keys or read the screen. Anything that creates awkward reaches or angles in the body will create problems. Please note that even a "perfect" posture may result in problems if it is held rigidly for long periods of time: relax, MOVE and shift positions frequently. This isn't just about your hands and arms, either: the use or misuse of your shoulders, back and neck may be even more important than what's happening down at your wrists.
More specifics:
While you are actually typing your wrists should not rest on anything, and should not be bent up, down, or to the side. (Figure 2) Your arms should move your hands around instead of resting your wrists and stretching to hit keys with the fingers. (palm rests give you a place to rest your hands only when pausing from typing, NOT while you are typing.) When you stop typing for a while, rest your hands in your lap and/or on their sides instead of leaving them on the keyboard.
- Wrists also should not be bent to the side, . . .
(Figure 3):Wrong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (Figure 4):Correct . . . but instead your fingers should be in a straight line with your forearm as viewed from above.
- Research suggests that all of the above is easier to do if you tilt the back edge of your keyboard down, away from you. Put a prop an inch or two thick under the edge of the keyboard closest to you, but make sure the whole thing is still low enough so you aren't reaching up. This is a good argument for getting an adjustable keyboard tray that permits optimal positioning.
- INCREASE YOUR FONT SIZES. Even with ever-larger monitors, many people favor tiny little fonts in their desktops and applications. This encourages one to hunch forward into the monitor to read things, putting pressure on nerves and blood vessels in the neck and shoulders. Microsoft Windows and Macintosh desktops and applications can easily be configured to use larger, easier-to-read fonts. Do it! Also consider using color schemes that are easier on the eyes, particularly shades of gray for text documents. (If you are using XWindows on Unix or Linux, make the fonts in your xterm windows bigger by hitting Control and the right mouse button over the window for a menu of font sizes.)
- DON'T POUND on the keys: use a light touch.
- Use two hands to perform double-key operations like
Ctrl-CorAlt-F,instead of twisting one hand to do it. Move your whole hand to hit function keys with your strong fingers instead of stretching to reach them. For additional excellent instruction on healthier typing technique read MOTION BASED ERGONOMICS KEYBOARD RETRAINING
- TAKE LOTS OF BREAKS TO STRETCH and RELAX. This means both momentary breaks every few minutes and longer breaks every hour or so. Pace and plan your computer work. Fidget a lot! Here are some GIF animations of some stretches you can do, courtesy of David Brown(1)& the New Zealand Occupational Safety and Health Service. -> #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 , #6 , #7 , #8 , #9 , #10 . (Don't do these at the speed displayed. Easy does it.) Notice that several stretches involve the neck & shoulders, which have more involvement with typing injuries than you might imagine. From the same source, here's some still pictures of exercises/stretches to do. #1 , #2 , #3 , #4 , #5 . Another good source of stretches is the innovative E-Stretch Web site. See photos of stretches at the University of Virginia, or download a desk stretch poster from Shelter Publications, who have an excellent new book of stretches for computer/desk workers. There are now MANY software packages available that can remind you to take breaks and show you stretches: see here and here. Text files discussing stretches are here and here . Finally, check out the great animated exercises on the Desktop Yoga web site or DeskExercises here courtesy Harvard Med school. Some neck-specific stretches are here.
- Hold the mouse lightly, don't grip it hard or squeeze it. Place the pointing device where you don't have to reach up or over very far to use it; close to the keyboard is best. Better yet: learn and use keyboard equivalent commands (see lists here ) whenever possible, as no pointing device is risk-free. Even trackballs have injured users. Here's some more shortcuts for Windows users. A comprehensive document on mouseless Windows use is Escape From the Mousetrap , free from KnowWare Publishing. Crazy Colour Cards are a compact reference of shortcuts for popular Windows software. With the latest versions of Apple's OS X operating system, there are similar accessibility options that reduce mouse usage. Here's a couple links that detail these sometimes less-well-known shortcuts: Magical Macintosh Key Sequences, Mac Tips for OS 9
- Keep your arms & hands warm. Cold muscles & tendons are at much greater risk for overuse injuries, and many offices are over-air-conditioned.
- Eliminate unnecessary computer usage. No amount of ergonomic changes, fancy keyboards, or exercises are going to help if you are simply typing more than your body can handle. Don't try to be the fastest, most powerful hacker around - the cost is too high. Also: is there recreational computer use you can reduce? Can some of your electronic mail messages be replaced by telephone calls or conversations in person? And lose the computer/video games . . . which often involve long, unbroken sessions of very tense keyboard or controller use. If nothing else, PAUSE the game every 3 - 4 minutes. Don't sacrifice your hands to a game!
- Consider voice recognition. Software that allows computer control or full voice dictation is becoming more powerful and less expensive. A good place to check into this is Susan Fulton's Computing Out Loud page. However, it's also possible to seriously injure your voice through overuse/misuse just as quickly as your hands, so don't consider this a "magic fix". Some tips for healthy voice computing from Berkeley Voice Solutions, and Susan Fulton advises being a slack jaw . . . The mother of all computer speech sites is the comp.speech FAQ , part of the Speech at CMU website, and you can access the Voice-Users mailing list info here.
- Evaluate other activities. Problems may be caused or aggravated by other things you do frequently. Sports, carrying children, hobbies requiring intense small work (like knitting), and excess effort/tension in other daily things may have enormous impact too.
- DON'T TUCK THE TELEPHONE BETWEEN YOUR SHOULDER AND EAR so that you can type and talk on the phone at the same time. This common procedure is very aggravating for your neck, shoulders, and arms.
- TAKE CARE OF YOUR EYES. Eyestrain is also a related, widespread problem that should be addressed at the same time you are setting up your computer for healthier use. See these articles from The Mayo Clinic , CV Consulting, Lutron, and Doctor Ergo.
- PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR BODY. Pain is your body yelling that it's in big trouble, but learning what is comfortable or awkward for your body before you're in pain may prevent injury. "Physical re-education" through The Feldenkrais Method, T'ai Chi, yoga , The Alexander Technique , Trager, stretching, or dance classes all may be helpful.
- KIDS ARE AT RISK TOO .. . with increasing hours in front of the computer at home and school, using equipment that rarely is set up correctly for people their size. CBC News discusses this in the article "Ergonomics for Children" This news article also examines the problem, as does this recent NY Times article. To help kids learn to compute safely, see the Kids FAQ on the Typing Injury FAQ site. Also, read this Workstation Ergonomics Guidelines for Computer Use by Children published by Cornell University. The program Stretch Break for Kids can be downloaded for free.
More tips ...
...on preventative posture and correct technique are on the Typing Injury Frequently Asked Questions Archive, maintained by Dan Wallach & Scott Wright. A good, more technical guide regarding causes and prevention are discussed on Protomics Web site. New and Recommended: a great starting place for learning healthy computing is, well . . . HealthyComputing.com
What If I Have Symptoms of RSI?
We all have occasional aches and pains that go away in a day or two, especially when we overdo anything. But if you have the symptoms listed above regularly when you are using the computer, run, do not walk, to your doctor or health care provider RIGHT AWAY. Dealing with this early is critical to limiting the damage, and to spare you a world of hurt , trouble, and frustration. You are not overreacting: by the time you have symptoms there has already been some damage done, and if you try to ignore the pain you may sustain a serious injury. If your doctor doesn't seem to know much about RSI, find one who does. When you find one, listen to them and check with them about any changes you intend to make or therapy you want to try. (See UN-L RSI Resources about the Health Center.) In order to be an educated patient, take time to read the other resources linked to on this page, or the books below. (Note: Dealing with RSI means wading through a lot of confusing medical terminology. See these On-Line Medical Dictionaries.)
Remember that "RSI" is a mechanism of injury, not a diagnosis. Where or how seriously you are injured, and how best to treat it, varies immensely from person to person. Also, many systemic disorders such as diabetes can mimic or exacerbate RSI, and these can be ruled out by medical tests, so don't go chasing a treatment you may have heard about UNTIL YOU'VE SEEN A DOCTOR.
No wrist splint, arm rest, split keyboard, spinal adjustment, etc. is going to let you go right back to work at full speed if you've been injured, and even carpal tunnel sufferers who undergo the release surgery on their wrists can be back in pain and trouble if they don't make the long term changes in technique and work habits that hurt them in the first place. Read this "Or else . . ." warning from someone who's been there.
Healing can happen but it may take months, even years. That's why it's important that you . . .
Many RSI patients do regain the ability to work and substantial freedom from pain, although they may find that they remain vulnerable to re-injury and flare-ups. DON'T GIVE UP. Recovery may take much longer than you think you can bear. DON'T GIVE UP. Almost everything in your life may turn upside down in the course of dealing with long-term recovery. DON'T GIVE UP. There are many, many resources listed on this page (see below), and if none of them is a fast "magic fix", taken together they can give you the tools to hang in there.
Don't give up.
Learn More About It . . . Books!
Books on RSI contain a far greater depth of information than can be easily presented on-line. I strongly encourage you to read one or more of the following titles. Check your local library for any of these titles. The publishing information and Web links to the publisher or distributor are included where they are known. In addition, in association with Amazon.com Books you can purchase many of these titles on-line by clicking the Order from Amazon ... link after each listing, which will take you directly to that particular catalogue item. If you buy from Amazon, they will handle all billing, shipping, etc. and inquiries should be directed to them. Some of these books & others are also available from Micronite Inc.
Widely regarded as the primary reference book on RSI is:
REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY: A COMPUTER USER'S GUIDE
Dr. Emil Pascarelli & Deborah Quilter
(ISBN 0-471-59533-0)
If you use any kind of computer regularly, check it out and read it, whether you are already injured or not. Your career could depend on it. Let me repeat one more time: it's easier to prevent RSI than to remedy it later. A review of the book can be found here. Deborah Quilter now has a web site with info on RSI, her publications, and her presentations.
Order RSI: A COMPUTER USER'S GUIDE from Amazon . . .- Dr. Pascarelli's Complete Guide to Repetitive Strain Injury : What You Need to Know About RSI and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
by Dr. Emil Pascarelli
Wiley; June 11, 2004 ISBN 0471388432Dr. Pascarelli has written a new book (2004) on RSI recovery. Here's some of what one reader said about it: "This 4th of July weekend I took a look at Dr. Emil Pascarelli's new book which was just published. . . . He spends some of his time discussing issues that affect musicians which is something that we have discussed on Sorehand. He also has excellent points on what RSI is not. One thing that alarms me a lot as a victim of CTS is that colleagues are think that they have this as well. Most people do not. In fact most people in my support group have TOS and the Dr. has a good discussion of this. He does emphasize the whole conservative treatment philosophy and a good section on biomechanics as well as one also on how to beat RSI.. One issue that affects a lot of my co-workers that the Dr. also discusses is vision in addition to ergonomics and dealing with pain. The section on emotions is not as extensive as the one that was in his earlier book with Deborah Quilter on Repetitive Strain Injury in general. But I found the book really helpful and others may wish to read it as well. . "
Order DR. PASCARELLI'S COMPLETE GUIDE from Amazon . . . - IT'S NOT CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME!
RSI Theory and Therapy for Computer Professionals
Suparna Damany, MSPT and Jack Bellis
This book easily makes the "must read" category: in fact, in my opinion it makes it to the "if-you-only-get-one-book-on-RSI- get-this-one" category, although I don't think anything totally bumps Pascarelli and Quilter out of the number one spot. What I've said of P&Q, I say of this book: every computer professional needs to read it. This book is a "second generation" work on RSI, drawing on the literature, experiences, and discussions of patients and health care professionals who have been dealing with computer-related injuries over the past decade. Damany and Bellis have done an excellent job at distinguishing root causes ; initial results; secondary results that become causes; and ultimate results in the painful circle of cumulative trauma injuries. Additionally, the writing style is personable, direct, and engaging. I think this up-to-date work really does cover it all. Well illustrated, to the point, firm in recommendations, it's hard for me to think of a better "starting point" for any "newbie" with RSI symptoms. Good info, material from the book, and a good quiz are found on web site .
Order IT'S NOT CARPAL TUNNEL! from Amazon . . . - CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
Prevention And Treatment
The Repetitive Strain Injury of the Wrist and Hand
by Kate Montgomery ISBN #1-878069-035-7It promises a lot, and some of the stuff is debateable . . . but it is chock full of practical information that I've found helpful and effective in my own situation.
This book appears to have been updated and released as END YOUR CARPAL TUNNEL PAIN WITHOUT SURGERY, available from Rutledge Hill Press. I've read this and it's still a useful resource. Most recent editions, additional information and articles can be found at the SportsTouch website. - Recommended by many on the 'Net is . . .
CONQUERING CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME AND OTHER REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURIES
A Self-Care Program
Sharon ButlerSharon Butler has been developing a system of gentle stretching to rehabilitate repetitive strain injuries for years now. This book, her first published resource, emphasized an extensive collection of stretches intended to heal tight and injured tissues. Good multiple indices help you find the stretches for your pains and/or your occupation. More info and ordering here. Also, she discusses many stretches and the theory behind them in an e-mail compilation here . But in addition to this book, Sharon now has developed fully rounded programs to address specific, common problems in a more detailed and focussed fashion, and these can be purchased and downloaded electronically through her new website at http://www.selfcare4rsi.com . The new material goes beyond simply presenting a collection of stretches to address issues connected to RSI in a more wholistic way. Here's somebody else's review: "Just wanted to say that I have seen Sharon's new program for CTS and it is "just what the doctor ordered" (we wish). If all doctors would prescribe these programs instead of surgery, drugs, etc, then thousands of people would be getting over their RSI problems pretty quickly. Her book remains the best book on the subject, but these programs could be said to supercede the book. <...> There is much new info, all presented in the clear and carefully written style of her book. In effect, she has published a stack of new books, each one written for a specific condition. <...> The program of stretches she provides is meant to provide relief from the pain of RSI (and should actually be all you need to put you back to where you were before the condition began). But she does explain that if you want to address the issues that enabled the condition to occur, you may need to go beyond the stretches in program. She recommends looking into Alexander, Feldenkrais, Rolfing, or Hellerwork. I would add yoga to that list. <...> I also thought that she maybe erred on the side of giving less info in general in the book, even though it is loaded. She seems to want to be very careful not to confuse people or overwhelm them with more information than they may want to read. I think she has done an excellent job in the new programs of explaining RSI - what it is, what causes it, how to solve it - and still presenting it so that anyone who really reads it can understand.
Order CONQUERING CARPAL TUNNEL from Amazon . . . - STRETCHING AT YOUR COMPUTER OR DESK
Bob Anderson, Illustrated by Jean Anderson
ISBN 0-679-77084-4 Shelter Publications, Inc. PO Box 279 Bolinas, CA 94924
Ph. 415-868-0280 E-mail: shelter@shelterpub.com
Web: www.shelterpub.com $9.95 US $13.95 CanadaThis book quickly provides the maximum useful information for computer and desk workers, explaining work hazards, when to stretch, where to stretch, the benefits of stretching, and how to stretch within the first eight pages. Subsequent stretch routines are applications targeted to real-life situations: "Stretches for Keyboard Operators", "Office Meeting Stretches", "Stressed Out Stretches", etc. and are followed by an overview on avoiding repetitive strain injuries; an explanation of good habits for body usage; in-depth instructions on the individual stretches; and concludes with an excellent bibliography and indices. The unambiguous message is that stretching should be part of one's day right where one is, not something requiring leotards, a gym membership, and a chunk of one's vanishing spare time.
Shelter now also publishes a break program based on this book, which runs on both Macintosh and PC platforms. (Notably, it can successfully provide breaks during CD games on the Macintosh, to help your kids learn safe computer use.)
Order STRETCHING AT YOUR COMPUTER from Amazon . . . - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: How to Relieve & Prevent Wrist "Burnout!"
Rosemarie Atencio
HWD Publishing, PO Box 220 XA, Veneta, OR 97487. (503)935-1608 FAX (503)935-0705 $13.95 + $2.50 s/h; the VHS tape (20 mins) is $2l.95 + $2.50 s/h or you can buy both & get a free 8 1/2 x 11 laminated poster for $39.15 including s/h.
An excerpt can be read here.
Order Carpal Tunnel Syndrome from Amazon . . . - COMFORT AT YOUR COMPUTER :Body Awareness Training for Pain-Free Computer Use
Paul Linden
This book also comes highly recommended. The author says: "The book is a user's manual for the human body. The book starts by helping people understand and FEEL the structure of their own bodies and what produces strain or comfort. It goes on to show how to work at computers -- and set up workstations -- in ways that will minimize physical strain. The book covers desktop workstations, laptop use, and standing workstations." Here's a taste of his writing, and you can access more of Linden's material on his Website. Prentice Hall, 1995. ISBN 1556433220
Order COMFORT AT YOUR COMPUTER from Amazon . . . - The Computer User's Survival Guide
By Joan Stigliani
1st Edition June 1995
ISBN: 1-56592-030-9; 296 pages, $21.95 credit card orders 800-889-8969; Email order@ora.com
The author sez: "The book takes an integrated approach to computer-related health problems, and covers RSI, eyestrain, stress, and radiation exposure (including electrical sensitivity). It's not a straight ergonomics text, but explores the body-mind-machine connections in computer work."
Order Computer User's Survival Guide from Amazon . . . - Zap!
How your computer can hurt you - and what you can do about it
By Don Sellers
Peachpit Press (800-283-9444). ISBN: 1566090210
Peachpit Press sez: From eyestrain to carpal tunnel syndrome, computer-related injuries are on the rise. This easy-access, well-illustrated guide explains a variety of potential hazards and what you can do to reduce your risk. Includes chapters on backache, headache, tendinitis, radiation, pregnancy, kids' concerns, and much more.
Order ZAP from Amazon . . . - COMPUTERFIT
Staying Healthy in a Computer-Based Workforce
by Randall Helm, P.T.
Like similar titles, this book addresses the whole picture of health and fitness in connection with computer use. Equipment set up, breaks, fitness, nutrition, and more are covered. Well illustrated. The author discusses and illustrates many good stretches on his Web site. - REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURIES
The Complete Guide to Alternative Treatments and Prevention
by Timothy J. Jameson
This book provides information on RSI that includes alternative treatments, in contrast to (or to complement, I should say) Pascarelli/Quilter's standard-med emphasis. The difficulty in treating RSI has prompted a great deal of interest in alternative therapies.I think the real strength of what Dr. Tim has written is his emphasis on an interdisciplinary treatment approach. In contrast to consulting a single practitioner who may have limited perspective and treatment preferences, Dr. Tim advocates for a team effort that *includes* standard medical professionals but brings in other practices such as chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, and others. Also, I think the book gives a decent basic rundown on the physiology of RSI, and includes good rehab information. While I consider some of the therapies presented here to be very questionable, at a minimum you will learn what each method claims to achieve for you from a writer who is not trying to sell one of them over the other but hopes to draw something from each.
Order REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURIES from Amazon . . . - THE REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY SOURCEBOOK
by Sandra Peddie
The author says: "The book covers both personal and practical issues of RSI. I've tried to give readers a comprehensive look at RSI, covering everything from the medical diagnosis to emotional repercussions to getting benefits. Because I've struggled with RSI for many years myself, I've included dozens of interviews with sufferers, as well as an account of my own experience with RSI. "
Order THE REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY SOURCEBOOK from Amazon . . . - REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY
A Handbook on Prevention and Recovery
by David Ruegg
Of particular interest to UK residents, written by an RSI sufferer in Britain and covering UK resources. Ordering Information - CRS - COMPUTER RELATED SYNDROME
The Prevention & Treatment of Computer-Related Injuries
by Dr. Richard Dean Smith and Steven T. GarskeA Sorehand list reader says: "exercises are pretty good. no index. not as complete as Pascerelli/Quilter, but a good complement. A friend of mine is being treated by Dr. Smith and really respects him." A massage therapist writes: "The only way to truly beat the chronic pain cycle is through good posture and strengthening/stretching, and the authors do a good job of providing effective, easy to perform exercises."
- Chronic Musculoskeletal Injuries in the Workplace
by Don Ranney, Alan Ranney (Illustrator)This is evidently a medical text for health care professionals with 10 contributors, but it may be useful to injured people trying to educate their doctors, or involved in establishing the validity of a compensation claim.
- LIGHT AT THE END OF THE CARPAL TUNNEL
A Guide to Understanding and Relief from the Pain of Nerve Problems
by Dr. Scott M. Fried
Dr. Fried is an orthopedic surgeon, and judging from his book he is sympathetic, optimistic, committed to thorough and accurate diagnoses. He also emphasizes the importance of educating the patient, making informed decisions in partnership with the patient, and of not rushing to surgery unless there is a well-established end in doing so. This includes having realistic expectations of the outcome should surgery prove advisable. It is NOT a replacement for a comprehensive RSI book like Pascarelli & Quilters Repetitive Strain Injury: A Computer User's Guide, but it is a valuable perspective on nerve problems and surgery and anybody involved with either (or both) should read this before agreeing to surgery.
Order LIGHT AT THE END OF THE CARPAL TUNNEL from Amazon . . .Dr. Fried has evidently written a second book, THE CARPAL TUNNEL HELPBOOK: Self-Healing Alternatives for Carpal Tunnel and Other Repetitive Strain Injuries which I have not read. He also has a website for his medical practice on-line at http://nervepain.com
- SITTING ON THE JOB
How to Survive the Stresses of Sitting Down to Work: a Practical Handbook
by Scott W. Donkin, D.C.
"... talks about body awareness, ergonomics at work (down to the last minute detail, believe me), proper sleep habits, stress management, exercise, and all kinds of stuff Sorehanders could benefit from, and it's a pretty elementary read. I recommend it, especially for those of us who have pain upon sitting. It is full of great advice and fascinating info."
Order SITTING ON THE JOB from Amazon . . . - PAIN-FREE TYPING TECHNIQUE
Simple Solutions to Prevent Repetitive Strain Injuries, from a Concert Pianist
by Howard Richman
This is an inexpensive and efficient little booklet that lays out principles for healthy typing. Getting healthy people educated on sound prevention principles without burying them with the whole spectrum of RSI information is important, and Mr. Richmond has developed a nice resource that fills that bill.
Order from Sound Feelings Web site, which includes free health tips and illustrations. - FULL CATASTROPHE LIVING
Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness
by Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D
Delacorte Press, 1990 ISBN 0-385-29897-8
This work comes out of the program of the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusettes Medical Center, and centers around the practice of "mindfulness meditation", using sitting meditation, yoga, the body scan, and other techniques. The reader may wonder what this really has to do with RSI, but will find the applications discussed in section 4 extremely relevant and useful to surviving the often grim challenges of this disorder. The author is careful to explain exactly what he means, and to ground it in clear, rational, practical applications. It's not a short book, and not a quick fix. But I found it fascinating and accessible and very, very applicable to anyone with chronic pain.
Order FULL CATASTROPHE LIVING from Amazon . . . - MANAGING PAIN BEFORE IT MANAGES YOU
by Margaret A. Caudill, M.D.,PhD.
ANYBODY in chronic pain would benefit from reading this book. It cuts right to the point in how we handle chronic pain, is very well organized, with a large format, all main points of each chapter summarized at chapters' end, and many worksheets to use to help clarify and identify important issues. I'll tell you up front: the book does not shrink from hard truths, and quickly identifies attitudes that are going to hinder or sabotage our recovery. While the methods of this book may help bring about reduced pain, it's about dealing with pain that *isn't* going away, and may never do so completely. RSI *can* get better and freedom from pain and recovered functionality are not unrealistic goals, BUT it can be a really, really long haul getting there, and survival in the interim requires learning about the topics in this book. This book does NOT examine all the specific medical therapies now being used for people in chronic pain, so you will want to do additional reading on the topic. But the main points of this book are things that might get overlooked if one only looks for somebody "out there" to "fix what's wrong with me."
Order MANAGING PAIN from Amazon . . . - THE EGOSCUE METHOD OF HEALTH THROUGH MOTION
by Pete Egoscue, Roger Gittines
Harperperennial Library 1993 ISBN 0060924306PAIN FREE : A Revolutionary Method for Stopping Chronic Pain
by Pete Egoscue, Roger GittinesIn "The Egoscue Method", Pete Egoscue has a very accessible manual for identifying dysfunctional habits of posture and motion that are the source of much musculoskeletal pain and disability. His book also lays out a series of exercises to correct these problems. Very readable, do-able, recommended by RSI recoverees. Egoscue's clinic also has a Web Site.
PAIN FREE in some ways simply revists the same material in THE EGOSCUE METHOD, and includes many of the same "E-cises" recommended in the earlier book. However, it organizes itself by body section, working from the feet up to the head, and thus it's easier to get to the material that applies to your particular pain. All these areas are functionally related, as Egoscue continually points out, and the same corrective postures and "E-cises" may apply to different pains. Like many authors presenting a personal approach to wellness, Egoscue is very optimistic about his ability to remedy a great many problems; but on the other hand, his methods are very reasonable and rational and he explains physical problems and his proposed remedies in careful detail, so I haven't got any quarrel with him. There's nothing "off-the-wall" here.
One reader of his books has commented: "I find the Egoscue exercises helpful and pain-relieving if done carefully, but the arguments in the book contradictory. (For example, are the injuries occupational, or aren't they? Should you worry about equipment set ups, or not? He's not clear.) A grain of salt is indicated. Here's another caution -- the exercises ask you to activate your lower back/hips -- but many of us are prone to over-extension in that area. I forgot about this and threw my back out doing his exercises. Look at how over-extended the lower backs are in the photos of the models. So my advice is proceed with the help of a physiologist or therapist who knows their stuff. I'm not sure it's entirely safe to try at home, especially if your injuries are complicated and old."
Have heard Egoscue has a new title: PAIN FREE AT YOUR PC. I assume it covers the same ground as the previous titles. A SOREHAND reader comments on it:
'I got the "revolutionary method" one from the library, and had trouble figuring out which were the right exercises for me, tho his arguments seemed convincing and some of the exercises felt good. Then I decided to try the new one, "...at your PC". It's relatively inexpensive (about $12US). It has sets of exercises for those in pain, 3 levels of computer users (power user=1-2 hours per day!) as prevention, Office Therapy for Power Users, Breaking the pattern of pain - I'm not clear on when he recommends this. I've been doing the Office Therapy ones - mostly because I can't make myself do the home series which starts out at 1 hour, goes down to 30 minutes after you reach a threshold with the "Supine Groin Stretch", which is just very awkward for me to do, with a makeshift "step ladder". However, I do think at least one of the stretches (arm circles) has helped quite a bit with my Pronator Teres Syndrome. when I first did it, 25 each way, it immediately produced a flareup. I waited a few days, and then built up from 5 each way, and I can type longer without pain. Long enough that I'm tempted to do too much. So, tho I haven't really followed all his instructions, I do think its helpful. For what it's worth. I feel it has moved my plateau a bit in the right direction.'
Order THE EGOSCUE METHOD from Amazon . . . - Myotherapy : Bonnie Prudden's Complete Guide to Pain-Free Living
by Bonnie Prudden
Ballantine Books 1985 ISBN 0345326881Exercise expert Bonnie Prudden presents her method of releasing the muscular spasms, called "trigger points", that are believed to underlie much chronic muscle pain. She covers both the "quick fix", which is to "release" the spasms with firm manual pressure, and the long-term fix, which involves exercise and fitness to keep trigger points at bay. Many RSI patients mention this kind of therapy as being helpful and it is becoming a part of neuromuscular massage across the country. Prudden's institute also has a Web Site.
Order MYOTHERAPY from Amazon . . . - CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME AND REPETITIVE STRESS INJURIES:
The Comprehensive Guide to Prevention, Treatment, & Recovery
by Tammy Crouch
North Atlantic Books. Berkeley, CA ISBN 1-883319-50-1I have only read the 1st edition, which was not too impressive, but evidently it has undergone substantial expansion and revision and sounds like a more comprehensive resource. Bear this in mind if you go looking for this in the library.
Order CARPAL TUNNEL from Amazon . . . - THE REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY HANDBOOK:
An 8-Step Recovery and Prevention Plan
by Robert M. Simon, Ruth Aleskovsky
Owl Books. ISBN 080505930XJack Bellis says: "As for coping, I got tho following book from my library, and it had the best "coping" info I've seen among 6 books I've read, about 75 pgs from a female sufferer, down to the most intimate details."
Order THE REPETITIVE STRAIN INJURY HANDBOOK from Amazon . . . - Relaxercise : The Easy New Way to Health and Fitness
by David Zemach-Bersin, Kaethe Zemach-Bersin, Mark Reese
Harper San Francisco 1990 ISBN 0062509926"I am really getting some good help from a book my Feldenkrais practioner recommended: "Relaxercise" by David Zemach-Bersin
The current thinking about my injury is that much of it is coming from the neck and shoulders. The exercise for relaxed shoulders has helped me tremendously. I wish I could comment on the exercises, but the relaxed shoulders exercise is the one I gravitate toward whenever I need help. I think I have gotten my money's worth." (quote: Judy L.)
Order RELAXERCISE from Amazon . . . - Muscle Pain Relief in 90 Seconds: The Fold and Hold Method
by Dale L. Anderson
John Wiley & Sons ISBN: 0471346896This book is a self-help manual of a form of soft-tissue care that is called strain-counterstrain or preferred position release. I've seen this touted by a number of therapists and it seems reasonable. I haven't found it to be a "magic bullet" when I get pain or cramping but it does seem to be a useful additional tool for muscle pain control.
Order MUSCLE PAIN RELIEF from Amazon . . . - The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook :
Your Self-Treatment Guide for Pain Relief
by Clair Davies, NCTMBNew Harbinger Publications, 2001 ISBN 1-57224-250-7; U.S. $19.95 8 1/2 x 11; 267 pages; 318 illustrations
There's an emerging concensus among those who treat cumulative trauma injuries that part of what produces the pain, and keeps it around for so long, are something called "trigger points": tight, inflamed "knots" in your muscles and soft tissues. A number of treatment options aim at unlocking and releasing these points. One such approach is in Clair Davies book, which stands out in taking the approach that the injured person themselves should be able to locate and treat these painful areas. The book is thorough and accessible, and I've found the information an indispensable in keeping me operational after my problems with musculoskeletal pain. This should be part of your "RSI first aid kit". - PMx
- Soft Tissue Massage for Pain Relief: How You Can Massage Away the Pain from 37 Health Conditions
by Bernard Schatz
Hampton Roads Publishing Company 2001 ISBN: 1571742646A reader opines: "Ten Star rating on this book.....Simply explained, easy to do and it seemed to me very effective. I happened to see it in a health food store. Well worth the $18 cost. Try it.....you learn a lot from doing the massage yourself, how to feel for where the spots/tightness are, how to listen to your body--what it says so you can adjust how you are doing things.. I used it in conjunction with myofascial massage by a professional. But they are different, mentally and physically.....BOTH....together are good."
Order SOFT TISSUE MASSAGE from Amazon . . . - Computering & Exercise: Escape The Aches And Pains Of Computer Work
by Dr. Ricky Lockett
Web Site here. LK says: "It emphasizes the need to be physically fit in a world that has become more and more sedentary. He makes a lot of good points. Has some excellent definitions for various computer injuries and hundreds of various stretches and strengthening exercises. I found some excellent strengthening exercises for my shoulders and neck that work just the right areas that I have needed to work but was unable find exercises that didn't make other areas of my body hurt...I also drove over 500 miles rountrip to see him. Currently, I am only doing exercises and stretches that are in his book. I have had great improvements!"
Order from Web Site. . . - WHEN ACHES BECOME INJURIES
A guide to preventing and managing repetitive strain injuries in the workplace.
London Occupational Safety & Health Information ServiceThe publisher says: "Compiled by injured workers and health care professionals, this 232-page book is a useful, comprehensive and easy to read guide to preventing and managing RSI. There are chapters on keeping a journal, ergonomics and pregnancy, setting up a computer workstation, breathing and stretching exercises, and dealing with the new Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. Appendices include a list of RSIs, a glossary of terms, information on rights and obligations, and more than 70 entries of "who does what" in Ontario and Canada."
Order from < LOSH web site.
- WOUNDED WORKERS:
The Politics of Musculoskeletal Injuries
by Penney Kome
University of Toronto Press, 1998 ISBN 0-8020-7795-1 (paperback)
The author says:" Wounded Workers is sort of a Whole MSI Catalogue. It reviews the medical, WCB, legal, union/management, ergonomics, computer workstations, self-help and legislative ramifications of work-related upper extremity disorders, lists tons of resources online and in the real world, and generally provides a map for the labyrinth in which so many MSI patients find themselves. U of T Press arranged for the manuscript to be peer-reviewed twice, to ensure that the scholarship is accurate & up-to-date--but the text is written for the general public & provides translations for many technical terms."
I've read this: it is extremely thorough, and it advocates for workers concerns without trying to demonize anyone.
- COPING SUCCESSFULLY WITH RSI
Maggie Black & Penny GrayPaperback: 128 pages Publisher: Sheldon Press (January, 1999) ISBN: 0859698114
Synopsis, forward can be read here .
- One-Handed in a Two-Handed World
By Tommye-K. Mayer" For those RSI sufferers who've got one "good" hand, Tommye-K's tips for managing, presented in a user-friendly tone, enable resting the damaged hand while it recuperates as much as possible, while still maintaining an active lifestyle."
Order from web site. - One Hand Typing and Keyboarding Manual
Lilly WaltersThis manual on one-hand typing can be ordered or downloaded from Ms. Walters' Web site . Not having read it myself I'll just comment that two-handed people with one RSI-injured hand should be cautious about trying to make their one as-yet uninjured hand take up the whole load of typing without making other changes in work load, breaks, etc. etc. A good portion of this book can be previewed for free.
- Living Well With a Hidden Disability : Transcending Doubt and Shame and Reclaiming Your Life
by Stacy Taylor, Robert Epstein (Contributor)Haven't read this one but sounds good. Dealing with RSI means more than just sorting out medical and ergonomic issues, there are heavy emotional and social impacts as well, and many RSI patients tell me that the "hidden disability" aspect of RSI is tough to deal with.
Order LIVING WELL from Amazon . . . - Job-Damaged People:
How to Survive and Change the Workers' Compensation System
By Amy Clipp" This book teaches injured workers what they must do if they are to get out of the workers compensation system with their health and incomes intact. . . This book presents the information you need to stop being a victim and start receiving the benefits you are entitled to. " (NoteIf you are involved in Workers Compensation you might want to see this list of Workers Compensation pages .)
Order from - How to Apply For and Win Social Security Administration Disability Benefits
By Frederick A. JohnsonPUBLISHER: MARCH 3RD BOOKS RING BOUND Pages:304 ISBN#: 0-9646998-0-X
"This is the 2nd edition of the first manual written for the non-attorney ever published. It reveals the standards of judgment SSA uses to determine disability and tells exactly what must be done to make it easy for SSA to grant benefits. " - Take Charge of Your Worker's Compensation Claim
A Complete Guide for Employees (California Edition)
By Christopher BallPublisher says: "This is the only book that shows you how to handle a California workers' compensation claim from start to finish. Workers' Compensation expert, Attorney Christopher Ball guides you through handling your legitimate claim from start to finish. "m
Order from Nolo Press web site. - HEALTHY COMPUTING WITH MUSCLE FEEDBACK
by Erik Peper, Katherine Hughes GibneyPublisher's blurb says: "A clear intervention blueprint for the successful management of repetitive motion injury and pain. It recognizes the big picture (muscular sensory awareness, stress management and optimal performance), while simultaneously attending to specific clinical and educational interventions (ergonomic assessment, surface EMG sensor placement and trainee training strategies). A comprehensive how-to-do workbook for consultants and clinicians focusing on the prevention and treatment of muscular skeletal pain disorders."
Order LIVING WELL from Amazon . . . - Repetitive Strain Injury? Rx: Yoga!
by Gail Dubinsky, M.D.Pamela writes: "A reminder that there are special yoga tapes available that are targeted specifically to RSI patients. Information can be found at www.rxyoga.com. The author of Rx:Yoga! is Dr. Gail Dubinsky, who treats soft-tissue orthopedic injuries, and is also a long-time yoga practitioner. I reviewed the tape for MC Journal (see here ), and found it to be extremely appropriate -- I suffer from carpal tunnel and tendonitis, and found the yoga poses to be very doable and helpful."
- Overcome Neck And Back Pain
by Kit Laughlin"I'm 34, programmer, and am in the same boat as you: lots of neck and shoulder pain, and being diagnosed with arthritis in the neck as well . . . I started doing a lot of exercise focused on shoulders and neck, and I have had some good results with that. By making the shoulders and neck stronger, I can go longer behind the PC. Also, doing a lot of stretching, and keeping the time behind the PC to a minimal (if possible) has helped as well . . . I can recommend: Buy the book 'Overcome Neck and Beck Pain' by Kit Laughlin, and do the stretching exercises he describes in his book. For me, focusing on the neck and back, but also focusing on the hip and leg exercises has helped a lot. "
(Paul adds: yes, people think of hands and arms first when they hear about RSI or "carpal tunnel" but neck/shoulder/back problems are at least as common and can contribute to the pain in hands and arms, too.)
Order OVERCOME NECK AND BACK PAIN from Amazon . . . - Terry Slade has compiled a very useful and diverse bibliography of \ "body" books worth reading for anybody recovering from, or trying to avoid, musculoskeletal injury.
- More pertinent books (mainly aimed at musicians) here . . .
Internet Sites & Other Links
This is not an exhaustive list of sites, just a handful of starting points. The first site listed has the most comprehensive index. Please note that RSI prevention products and books are now being advertised on the Web; remember that there are no magic bullets or sure-fire fixes and consider any such things as only part of an overall approach to prevention that must include a medical provider if you are already injured.
- The Typing Injury FAQ Archive mentioned above has a lot of information on equipment, therapies, software, and an overview of the physiology of RSI. This site is THE place to find RSI information and many more links to other Internet RSI-related sites. It is also part of the newly formed CTD Resource Network, Inc., a nonprofit corporation providing information and assistance to the RSI community.
- HealthyComputing.com is a terrific site to learn how to compute safely.
- Read The Ergonomic Times for current articles and discussions on computer ergonomics and injuries.
- Randy Rasa has created an excellent all around RSI resource site at RSI-Relief.Com
- The Dutch RSI-Center has good info for English and Dutch speakers alike, including good RSI tests. Also includes a search engine for searching other RSI sites and archives for past articles.
- Also from the Netherlands is the Dutch-language RSI Online website from the Dutch Informatics University.
- The Association for Repetitive Motion Injuries (ARMS): not-for-profit organization committed to assisting workers at-risk or injured by repetitive motion syndromes.
- The The Coalition on New Office Technology (CNOT) has been active in helping workers deal with RSI for a long time now.
- Safe Computing Tips . Com , their name says it all.
- The recently revived RSI Network newsletter including the original 25 back issues.
- New suggestions regarding monitor placement are discussed in these two articles (1) and (2) by Dennis Ankrum.
- http://www.tellmeabouttos.com/index.htm has many resources for people with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome including on-line forum, chat, doctor list, and more.
- United Kingdom citizens should see the Disability UK page; the RSI Association of the UK no longer exists but their website of resources has been archived and remains accessible here , thanks to Keytools. There is also an RSI-UK e-mail list to which you can subscribe.
- A great variety of information on "Working and Living Pain Free" is at Working-Well.org
- More info on Thoracic Outlet Syndrome .
- A very in-depth document on stretching & flexibility.
- ErgoWeb and Ergoworld are good starting places when searching for ergonomics resources.
- A new resource with product and literature reviews is Ergoblog .
- Excellent all-round info on office ergonomics presented by the folks at F-One Ergonomics including a discussion of emerging ergonomics versus Conventional Wisdom .
- Harvard RSI Action Home Page is an excellent student-written page aimed at college students, who are a high risk group for RSI.
- Nils Klarlund has done some interesting research and thinking about input devices and among other things has developed a ShortTalk speech interface for computer users.
- A free Powerpoint presentation on workstation setup. (500K)
- The UCSF/UCB Ergonomics Program has a good page of research links.
- The computer ergonomics pages of U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, and the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Of particular value is NIOSH's comprehensive paper on Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) and Workplace Factors .
- Occupational Health Clinics for Ontario Workers at http://www.ohcow.on.ca
- CTDNews , a monthly newsletter covering RSI injuries.
- Dr. Charles Eaton's Comprehensive List of Carpal Tunnel Links, plus treatment links for Tendinitis, Nerve Compression Syndromes, and more on the E-hand site, including exercises, images, etc. Fascinating.
- The Invisible Disabilities Advocate is a superb resource for dealing with "invisible" problems like RSI.
- 3M Corp. has started the Business Ergonomics Interest Group .
- A Calendar of Ergonomic Events is online now, post your events here.
- Massage is an important treatment & prevention measure for RSI: read these articles/sites by Orthodoc Pain & Posture Clinic, Bill Peay, Rosemarie Atencio, Mark Sincock, Elliot Greene, and Paul Marxhausen . A book to help massage therapists avoid or remedy their potential injuries is Lauriann Greene's SAVE YOUR HANDS! Her Web site has just been expanded with RSI tips and additional links, check it out.
- Many people report that The Feldenkrais Method and The Alexander Technique are helpful in learning non-injurious use of the body. A Feldenkrais practitioner has some good info on his Somatic Options page, including info on Low-Stress Computing. Also there are many good reports on the effectiveness of Hellerwork , Rolfing , , and The Pilates Method in treatment of RSI.
- Excellent relaxation instructions via a Flash website: Cafe Yoga
- Excellent home page of the Los Angeles RSI Support Group , including a Home Remedies page. Also, a support group in Toronto has a page, as does the Seattle RSI Team support group.
- Simple instructions on using meditation for RSI .
- Detailed info on Thoracic Outlet Syndrome from a physical therapy viewpoint is found at NISMAT's Physical Therapy Corner.
- Justin writes about How I Beat RSI .
- An excellent guide for employers is the FOUR STEP ERGONOMICS PROGRAM FOR EMPLOYERS WITH VDT OPERATORS from the Cal/OSHA Consulation Service .
- New ... Cornell Ergonomics Web has excellent slide shows and research info.
- There are several forums dealing with RSI-connected issues (chronic pain, TOS, etc. ) on the Neurotalk Communities .
- Many important insights about pain and suffering at www.nosuffering.com , sponsored by the Pain Relief Center of Northern Arizona.
- Worldwide Congress on PAIN
- "Our Lives With Chronic Pain", personal discussions and information.
- Chronic Pain Support Page.
- Build-it-yourself low-stress computer desk plans are available from Woodware Designs.
- Versions of the Pocket Ergonomist can be downloaded as a Windows Help file or as PDF files.
- The Center for Office Technology is a national association of employers and manufacturers dedicated to improving the office working environment and promoting informed approaches to comfort and well-being issues associated with computers and office technology.
- Good information at the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety.
- MFL Occupational Health Centre of Manitoba.
- No Pain Computing information from Work Smart
- One person's Voice recognition & general RSI resources and tips.
- The National Science Foundation's Industry/University Cooperative Reseach Center in Ergonomics at Texas A&M University is conducting research into the use of laptop computers in "non-traditional" working environments. Take their research survey here.
- Library workers should see the sites here, here, and here.
- One programmer's Tendonitis Prevention for Programmers.
- Disability free/shareware for the Macintosh
- Workers with RSI frequently find themselves involved in the potentially confusing world of Workers Compensation. Besides the book mentioned earlier, here are some important links to start with so you are informed at the outset.
- The Consumer Information Service of the California Applicants' Attorneys Association has good introductory info about WC.
- Well-organized Worker's information from The Alberta WC board.
- A WC Checklist from somebody who's been through it . . .
- LA RSI Support Group's Workers' Comp & Related Topics;
- Workerscompensationinsurance.com is a WC advocacy page;
- Wisconsin's WC agency has a list of Workers Compensation pages and resources ;
- Workers Compensation pages for all 50 States and for Other Countries from the N.C. Industrial Commission;
- a host of legal resources from WorkCompCentral ;
- The Work Injury/Workers Compensation Help-Line!(sm)
- Workers' Comp & Related Topics.
- Workers' Comp and OSH & Standards sites.
- FIX TWCC!, online resource center for grassroots action to show the human side of workers' compensation in Texas.
- Workers' Compensation Information Sources For All 50 States
- Canadian Workers Compensation Boards
- Workplace Injured (Oregon).
- FedUpFeds (for U.S. federal workers)
- Also, the Pennsylvania Federation of Injured Workers has good guidance regarding occupational injury, including attending a medical exam conducted by your employer's or insurance company's doctor.
- In a similar mode, see the Canadian injuredworkers.online , CANADIAN INJURED WORKERS ALLIANCE , and Office of the Worker Advisor websites.
Injured people may really need legal help. Prarielaw.com is a good place to start. More legal resources are here.
- Workplace Injury Litigation Group
- In the UK, check with the Law Centres Federation.
- directory of WC firms.
- Workmans' Compensation Legal Help
- Interesting article on chronic pain and how Drs and attys deal with it.
- When getting evaluated for insurance or worker's comp., you may encounter medical documents with "ICD-9" codes categorizing your condition. If you want to know what these codes mean, see ICD-9 Search or International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health
- R.S.I. does leave many people at least partially disabled. See Employment Resources for People with Disabilities , disAbility.gov The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) , The Empowerment Zone , The Boulevard , FirstGOV for Workers (many disability links), Disability Resources Monthly , New Mobility's Interactive Cafe , Solutions@disability.com , recruitAbility job search site, Disability UK , the UK's Disability Rights Commission, Enable Magazine , Ability Hub assistive technology solutions, The Disability Benefits Information Website and the Web page for the DISINISSUES e-mail list.
- Many RSI sufferers need to change careers. The Centerpoint Institute for Life and Career Renewal provides retraining.
- A place to collect people's experiences of problems with the U.S. health care system is Health Care Problems .
- For ongoing discussion with fellow RSI sufferers, subscribe to the SOREHAND e-mail list by sending mail with the line
SUBSCRIBE SOREHAND firstname lastnamein the body to listserv@itssrv1.ucsf.edu.
Questions?
With these pages I've tried to provide access to everything I've heard about RSI, but I'm not an "expert". Everything here has come to me from other people. If you have more good resources, corrections to what is here, or encounter dead links, please let me know so it benefits the unexpectedly large number of people who find this site when they are looking for help.
My own experiences with treatment are necessarily limited. If you have questions about RSI, in addition to seeing a doctor and reading the resources above I strongly suggest you tap into one of my main resources, the SOREHAND e-mail list. You can subscribe by sending mail with the line SUBSCRIBE SOREHAND firstname lastname in the body to listserv@itssrv1.ucsf.edu. Questions about RSI can also be addressed to a board of health professionals using the moderated USENET group misc.health.injuries.rsi.moderated, which carries a regularly posted FAQ that is unsurpassed.
Text content of this page is Copyright © 2005 Paul Marxhausen
No permission required for Web links to this page. All rights reserved for reproduction in print or other media. Print-outs of this page may be photocopied for NON-COMMERCIAL informational use. (1) Figure 1 reproduced with permission from "The Pocket Ergonomist", Copyright © 1986 David Brown and Robin Mitchell, occupational health and safety consultants, Airport Health Centre, Mascot NSW Australia; stretch GIFs reproduced with permission from "The Floppy Ergonomist", Copyright © 1987 David Brown. Figures 2 through 4 are public domain.
Web awards for RSI Page
Click for the
E.E. Shop Page, or the 
Electrical Engineering Home Page.Univ. of Nebraska-Lincoln / Electronics Shop RSI Web Page / Paul Marxhausen
Georgia Health Care Providers
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Self Referred
My Name is Dr. James Locher. I am a Chiropractor (DC) and Certified
Chiropractic Extremity Practicioner (CCEP) in the Atlanta, GA area. Thank
you for your very informative and useful site. May I add my name to your
list of physicians and therapists.
My protocol for RSI includes examination of the entire brachial plexus, from
the spine, through the thoracic outlet, shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist
and hand, as the symptoms often result from multiple sites of muscular,
ligamentous and osseous neurological and vascular involvement (the "double
crush" phenomenon). Treatment is designed to reduce neurovascular
compression and irritation at as many sites as possible, using chiropractic
spinal manipulative adjustments, soft tissue massage, trigger point therapy,
electrical muscle stimulation and ultrasound therapy. I have additional
certification (CCEP) beyond the average DC in extremity treatment using
muscle testing and shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand manipulation. Postural
therapy, nutritional and herbal supplementation and exercise are employed
for rapid response and long term benefit.
Dr. James Locher, DC, CCEP 9850 Nesbit Ferry Rd., Ste 6 Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 641-9295
Patient Recommendation
I am a musician in Atlanta, GA and have suffered from RSI for a number of
years. I found this doctor (chiropractor) who not only specializes in
treating musicians, but also had an extensive knowledge of RSI's and other
extremity injuries. I cound on being in top shape to sing and play guitar
and my injuries kept me from doing that until I started seeing Dr. Donna M.
Polk, D.C. I haven't had any problems since then. I know she treats all
types of musicians from a local to a national level, working with major lable
talents to keep them on the road and playing.
She just recently spoke at a nationally sanctioned NARAS event called Vocal
Tech. She was on the leading medical expert panel. The artist panel
included Rob Thomas from Matchbox 20.
Anyway, she's an incredible doctor and I would recommend her to anyone
regardless of whether they are a musician or not!!
Donna M. Polk, D.C 17-A Lenox Pointe Atlanta, GA 30324 404.233.4002 or 404.932.6689 chirodrop@aol.com
Patient Recommendation
I live in Atlanta, too. My massage therapist has helped me so much
in the last six months. I'm not too good at doing all the things I know I
need to do to prevent flare ups, so I have them. Cindy helps me when I don't
help myself. Here is the web site. I see Cindy Farrar.
http://www.massageassociates.homestead.com/Index.html
Self Referred
Physical Stress Solutions Injury Center -
Building 2, Suite 102 5825 Glenridge Drive Atlanta, GA 30328
O: 404-591-6111 F: 404-591-6890
http://www.pssinjurycenter.com/
"...Since I wrote my initial injury about Atlanta, I discovered the following
practice which I can highly recommend: PSS Injury Center:
http://pssinjurycenter.com
Dr. Edward Schneider, a young chiropractor, heads this well-run practice
with branches in Sandy Springs and East Atlanta. They do a program of
treatment for carpal tunnel and other repetitive stress injuries, using
stretches, exercise, heat and cold, and electrical stimulation -- all fairly
standard, I gather, but very well administered by an excellent staff. They
also use massage and kinesio taping; I was skeptical about the latter but
having tried it I am a convert. Dr. Schneider has worked on RSI issues for
a number of years, having become interested in it after suffering from RSI
himself. I found him friendly, down to earth, and willing to listen and
answer questions -- very different from the hand and wrist surgeon I had
gone to before."
I've been going to PSS Injury Center in East Atlanta for the past month
to treat my carpal tunnel and tendinitis (also from computer use). They
specialize in hand and wrist problems. I've definitely made some
progress, however I've still got a long way to go with my tendinitis.
But, I think that's to be expected since I've had it for 7 years.
AOEC Member
Environmental and Occupational Program
The Emory Clinic at Perimeter
875 Johnson Ferry Road Clinic Founded 1990
Atlanta, Georgia 30322
Mailing Address:
Department of Environmental and Occupational Health
Rollins School of Public Health of Emory University
1518 Clifton Road
Atlanta, GA 30322
AOEC Contact:
Howard Frumkin, MD, Dr.PH
Offices 404-727-3697 FAX 404-727-8744
Chair INTERNET frumkin@sph.emory.edu
Edward Galaid, MD, MPH
Clinic 404-778-5978 FAX 404-727-8744
Director of Clinical Services
INTERNET galaid@sph.emory.edu
Patient Recommendation
Dr. Katherine L. Maurath, physiatrist
Dr. Maurath does a thorough exam, and listens to the patient.
She does not hesitate to write notes to the employer about
work restrictions. She is good at explaining anatomy. She
wanted to do conservative methods on me, and not consider any
surgery, which I also thought was best.
ST SIMONS IS , GA 31522 703-471-5300
Patient Recommendation
I would like to send a referral on my Dr that has handled my carpal and
cubital tunnel injuries. He is the top hand specialist in my area and he has
an excellent reputation in the state of GA. He specializes in microsurgery
and is very empathetic to his patients. I would really appreciate it if you
would add his name to your webpage. I have some information on this Dr and
some research materials I found on him. I hope this helps others in my area.
Thank you.
John W. Sapp, MD Macon Orthopaedic and Hand Center at the Medical Center 840 Pine Street Suite 500 Macon, GA 31201 478-745-4206 (Inside the Professional Bldg of the Medical Center of Central Georgia)
Dr. Sapp is a 1985 graduate of the Medical College of Georgia where he
received his medical degree. He then entered a general surgery residency at
the Medical Center of Central Georgia as a preliminary to plastic surgery
training. At Louisiana State University in New Orleans, he completed a
plastic surgery residency with emphasis in microsurgery.
Dr. Sapp spent an additional year in training at the University of Florida as
a fellow in hand and microsurgery prior to joining the practice in 1992. Dr.
Sapp is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and holds a
Certificate of Added Qualifications in Surgery of the Hand.
He has a special interest in microsurgery - the transfer of tissue from one
area of the body to another and reattachments following amputations - as well
as arthoscopy of the wrist.
Dr. Sapp maintains memberships in professional organizations which include
the American Society for Surgery of the Hand, American Society of Plastic
Surgeons, American Medical Association, Medical Association of Georgia, and
Bibb County Medical Society. He is on the faculty of Mercer University School
of Medicine as Clinical Assistant professor in the Department of Surgery.
Below is also some information on the Macon Orthopaedic and Hand Center and
the Dr 's.
The Macon Orthopaedic & Hand Center has been providing quality care since
1961. This group of physicians have been leaders in the development of
Orthopaedic and hand surgery.They are recognized in their specialties on a
regional and national level.
Our physicians are leaders in the areas of Orthopaedic Surgery dealing
with the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of the
musculoskeletal system, extremities and spine and Hand Surgery utilization of
advances in Orthopaedics, general, plastic, neurologic, and microsurgery to
preserve and restore function of the hand and the upper limb.
Miscellaneous Health Care Providers
Miscellaneous
Some resource information falls outside of all the above categories but for
one reason or another still seems to be potentially useful.
