Many students type and use a mouse or phone for hours every day. This can lead to pain, tingling or stiffness in the wrist, hand, forearm or elbow. In the Netherlands these complaints are known as CANS (complaints of arm, neck and/or shoulder), often called RSI.
Common causes
- Typing, mouse use and phone use for many hours without breaks.
- Working on a laptop without a proper keyboard, mouse or chair.
- Repetitive movements in sport or hobbies, such as climbing, gaming or playing an instrument.
What you can do yourself
- Take short, frequent breaks and vary your activities.
- Use a separate keyboard and mouse with your laptop, and keep your wrists relaxed.
- Learn keyboard shortcuts to reduce mouse use.
- Keep moving and stay active outside study hours.
How we can help
We first check with you whether our student learning clinic suits your complaint, or whether a regular physiotherapist is a better fit. If our clinic is right for you, a student assesses your complaint under supervision. Within a maximum of three appointments you receive:
- Assessment of your complaint and your study and work habits.
- Exercises for strength, mobility and relaxation of the arm and hand.
- Advice on your workplace, breaks and gradually increasing the load again.
Need longer treatment? We help you find a regular physiotherapist.
When to see a doctor first
Contact a GP if your hand or fingers stay numb or lose strength, if the wrist is swollen or misshapen after a fall, or if a joint is red, warm and swollen.
Read more in our frequently asked questions, or see other injuries and conditions we treat.
Pain from typing or studying? Book an appointment for €5.
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