This Practice Note is an introduction to the group of injuries which are caused or aggravated by forceful, repetitive and awkward movements with insufficient rest or recovery time. The disorders, which can be known by many collective terms, are commonly referred to as 'repetitive strain injuries', ‘work-related upper limb disorders’ or ‘musculo-skeletal disorders’. This Practice Note considers the best approach when preparing or defending a claim for these types of injuries.

'Repetitive strain injury' (RSI) usually refers to pain or injury arising from repetitive movements. Most commonly, the repeated movements cause chronic foreARM pain or Disability. The term has become synonymous with occupational arm pain. There are both specific diagnosable conditions within this category and non-specific pain and fatigue. The main specifically identifiable conditions are as follows: