The Role of the Physiotherapist in the Management of Repetitive Strain Injury

A review of current literature concerning the aetiology, diagnosis, role and involvement of physiotherapists in the treatment of repetitive strain injury (R.S.I.) is presented as a basis for investigation.To determine the modes of treatment used by physiotherapists in the management of R.S.I. and to analyse their efficacy, a questionnaire was designed.Forty centres were surveyed and the results are presented. Information concerning the most commonly encountered conditions, treatment given, and physiotherapists' opinions on prevention, patient education and further training in RSI management was also sought.An attempt is made to define the role of the physiotherapist in the recognition, treatment and education aspects of over-use injury, and recommendations for further research and physiotherapy involvement are presented