Review of It's Not Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: RSI Theory & Therapy for Computer Professionals 437 Words If your arms ache after a hard day at the computer keyboard, It's Not Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: RSI Theory & Therapy for Computer Professionals is a new book that might be just the medicine you're looking for. Written by a veteran technical writer who suffers from a repetitive strain injury (RSI), and a physical therapist who has specialized in treating such injuries, it offers a new perspective on problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis. Estimates and opinions vary widely on the true scope and severity of RSI the problem, but with the recently announced OSHA regulations there should be no doubt about the number of people looking for answers. In a nutshell, authors Damany and Bellis contend that most repetitive strain problems are improperly blamed on one spot such as the wrist or elbow, when in fact the solution can only be found by addressing the entire upper extremity. It's Not Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is written in a very non-technical style, but builds a strong case for their theory by describing the anatomy of the whole arm, alternative theories, and the traditional range of diagnostic techniques. The authors lay out their theory with the goal of finding common denominators among all computer users. In the authors' eyes, it doesn't make sense that so many different diagnoses-carpal tunnel, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, trigger finger, and so on-are all used as targets for treatment, when one activity, computer use, seems to have caused them all. Only by properly identifying the cause do they feel that a diagnosis can be made that will lead to a successful course of treatment. And precisely what cause do they cite? They identify a chain reaction involving workload, personality, ergonomics, repetition, fatigue, posture, and aging. Here's what they call the number one physiological truth of RSI: "Muscles, tendons, and bones (collectively the musculoskeletal system) will adapt to almost any habitual posture and activity. Unfortunately, they will do this with no accommodation whatsoever to the nervous system, which has no such adaptability. Your nerves may merely be the messengers of the deteriorating state of affairs, or the actual recipients of the damage." To combat the disease, Damany and Bellis spell out a combination of massage therapy, exercise, and ergonomics. They support their ideas with several patients' histories and comments throughout. Other sections include an extensive listing of resources (and a supporting web page), and short sections on setting up a prevention program, and considerations for students. When those aches and pains don't go away after a good night's sleep, It's Not Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is where serious RSI sufferers are turning for answers. .... It's Not Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: RSI Theory & Therapy for Computer Professionals Available at Amazon.com Suparna Damany and Jack Bellis Published by Simax, Philadelphia, PA ISBN 0-9655109-9-9 www.RSIRescue.com This review is available electronically at: http://www.rsirescue.com/promo/