[chicane]

Hello all - This is my first post on UKb, been a member for a year and got loads of useful info off here.

I suffer with RSI and have recently started climbing regularly (past 6 months) I don't have any problems while climbing and it actually feels good to be working my arms and hands. I work in IT and don't want to quit my job or stop climbing as I enjoy both. I'd be interested in anyone else's experiences and also recommendations of a specialist in or around Manchester as I've had no luck going down the NHS route with either diagnosis or treatment. Currently waiting on an appointment with the neurologist at the local hospital after a nerve conductivity test didn't highlight a problem.

Has anyone heard of / had Active Release Technique (ART) performed on them? There's a physio in Oldham which does this which I might try but can't find much info or anyone whose had it done.

Cheers

Matt

[GCW]

Many say ART is just Mr Leahy trying to make money.  I don't know of any SCIENCE that proves it is more effective than normal focussed MSK physio input.  RSI is an overused term- who diagnosed it for you (ie do they know what they are on about?).

[Houdini]

Powerballs:


proven to cure hand-AIDS/gay wrist.

[chicane]

Hello,

It was my GP who loosely diagnosed / mentioned RSI before referring me to a specialist although they still haven't actually said what it is. I have all the classic symptoms of numb fingers aching hands etc . Have been just putting up with it for ages and getting frustrated waiting 3 months between appointments at the hospital and have decided to try and get it sorted now as don't want to change jobs or give up climbing. My dad can sort me out with some private physio so am going to go and see them. Was also thinking about giving ART a try but may give that a miss.

Have read a lot on here about powerballs - I'll get one ordered, willing to try anything.

Cheers

Matt

[slackline]

You've no doubt already done it but have you reviewed your position at your "work station"?

I do a lot of typing and very quickly learnt years ago that using a normal rectangular keyboard just didn't feel comfortable as it forced my wrists to twist (holding my hands out flat in front of me the base of my thumbs are forced closer together when touch-typing), mainly because in most people your shoulders are wider than the width of the keyboard.  The simple solution was to use an ergonomic keyboard.  The best I've found so far is the Microsoft Ergonomic Keyboard 4000 which at around £20-25 was an absolute bargain (although work paid for the one I use at work obviously).

Other things to consider are your overall posture at your "work station" which will subtly affect your hand and wrist position.

Powerballs

[chicane]

I have a vertical mouse by Evoluent - never bothered getting an ergo keyboard but will get work to buy me one.

Which powerball model should I go for - just looking on Play.com and there's loads?

Cheers

Matt

[GCW]

No frills 250Hz PowerBall.  Ignore the screamers/ neon etc

[Houdini]

Get the 250hz pro - so you can count/compete etc..

You sound like you need two, I'd get one without a counter as well as one with; without counters they're much more comfy.

[GCW]

without counters they're much more comfy.

That's why I didn't suggest the pro.  Besides, he wants rehab not speed records.  You're just bitter cos you know he'll take the prize away from you.

[Houdini]

But of course, heaven forbid!


My brother-in-law is an orthopedix wad @ Hannover Infirmary, he now recommends powerball for xtra mobility rehab.

(Personally I prefer the original pb sans counter for rehab work/training as it's got more friction than the 250hz - the 250hz requires more input than the original, which is rougher, and steadier at low revs).