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Abstract
Computer users experience high rates of injury and disability, broadly termed repetitive
strain injury (RSI). With more than 60 million Americans using computers in offices
and homes, the potential magnitude of the RSI problem indicates a need for increased
attention to prevention and treatment. The purpose of this article is to: 1) present
a conceptual model of RSI as a kinetic-chain, multifactorial disorder; 2) outline
the salient features of the clinical evaluation of the RSI patient; 3) describe the
role of postural deviation in the pathogenesis of RSI; 4) present the principles of
individual manual therapy; and 5) discuss the rationale, admission criteria, educational
principles, and outcome of a multidisciplinary group intervention.
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© 1998 Hanley & Belfus, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.