Why That Wrist Pain Isn’t Going Away: Clifton’s Guide to Repetitive Strain Injury

Do you spend your day typing, texting, lifting, or clicking a mouse? If so, and you’ve been dealing with persistent wrist pain that just won’t quit, you might be facing a condition known as Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI). At our Clifton location, we’re seeing more patients in their 30s, 40s, and 50s with undiagnosed RSI symptoms that interfere with everything from their jobs to simple daily tasks.

This blog breaks down the common causes of wrist pain, why RSI develops, and how Garden State Pain & Orthopedics in Clifton can help you find lasting relief.

What Is Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)? RSI is a general term for pain and damage caused by repetitive movement and overuse of muscles, tendons, and nerves—most often affecting the hands and wrists. It develops gradually and can become chronic if left untreated.

Common Causes of RSI:

• Frequent typing or computer use

• Texting or scrolling on smartphones

• Manual labor or repetitive lifting

• Sports like tennis or golf

• Using hand tools or assembly line work

Over time, repetitive motions cause micro-tears, inflammation, and nerve compression.

Signs and Symptoms of RSI Not all wrist pain is caused by an acute injury. You may have RSI if you notice:

• Dull, aching pain in the wrist or forearm

• Tingling or numbness in the fingers (especially thumb, index, or middle fingers)

• Weak grip strength

• Pain that worsens with repetitive tasks

• Stiffness or fatigue in the hands by day’s end

The most common types of RSI we treat in Clifton include carpal tunnel syndrome, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and tendinitis.

Why People in Clifton Are at Risk With many residents working in tech, healthcare, logistics, and desk-based professions, Clifton professionals are at high risk of RSI. Remote work has only intensified screen time, with makeshift desk setups leading to poor ergonomics. Combined with parenting, exercise, and hobbies that involve hand movements, RSI has become a growing issue in our community.

Getting Diagnosed at Garden State Pain in Clifton

At your first visit, our team will:

• Review your symptoms and work/lifestyle habits

• Perform a physical exam (range of motion, grip strength, nerve response)

• Use diagnostic tools like nerve conduction studies, ultrasound, or MRI if necessary

Identifying the exact source of pain helps us create a personalized care plan.

Effective Treatments for Wrist RSI

✅ Conservative Approaches

• Wrist braces or splints: Immobilize the area and allow it to heal

• Ergonomic coaching: Adjust desk and tool use for better body mechanics

• Physical therapy: Includes stretching, nerve glides, and strengthening exercises

• Rest and activity modification: Taking breaks and avoiding aggravating motions