Re: [PLUG] [OT] Finding a good doctor for RSI / CTS

[jeff <jeffv@op.net>]

On 08/24/2014 09:35 PM, K.S. Bhaskar wrote:
> Some members of this list likely have had issues with repetitive stress
> injuries / carpal tunnel syndrome.  How would one go about finding a
> doctor for RSI / CTS (family practitioner / occupational specialist /
> pain management specialist: I'm not sure who exactly treats such
> conditions non-surgically; once surgery is determined to be the right
> course of action, I presume an orthopedist is the right specialization).

When I had some trouble, I went to a hand surgeon. Turned out is was a 
more generic problem.

I met a guy called Dr Steve Cash (no, really), who is a hand surgeon. 
Nice guy, in Bala-ish, but I can't speak to his medical manner. Sports 
medicine might be another place to look.

My chiropractor suggested a 2-3" ace bandage, wrapped around the arm, 
just below the elbow (not too tight). I kept it on for a few days and 
the pain went away. Can't hurt.

Obviously anti-inflammatories will help to some degree (ibuprofen or 
naproxen-Alleve)-do not take on an empty stomach.  Continuing typing the 
same way will only hurt.

     ----------------------------------------------------

On a related note, the ideal way to work is to set things up 
ergonomically. Some RSI comes from hyper extending the wrist. Ideally 
your elbows should be bent at a 90 degree angle. Your hands should be on 
top of the keyboard, with no flexing or reaching up or down with your 
wrists.

I like ergo keyboards (embarrassingly enough, the MS ergo keyboard). 
Might take a little getting used to but it's better for the wrists. 
There are other adjustable keyboards and different shaped mice. A 
trackball might help or an ergo mouse.


       --------------------------------------------------

DISCLAIMER: I am not a doctor, psychiatrist, sanitation engineer or rock 
star (regrettably). Just a guy who cares about his wrists (and the 
wrists of others).


___________________________________________________________________________
Philadelphia Linux Users Group         --        http://www.phillylinux.org
Announcements - http://lists.phillylinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug-announce
General Discussion  --   http://lists.phillylinux.org/mailman/listinfo/plug