Since then, I have been asked on numerous occasions how I am doing and how it has affected my job as a designer. Latest one, today actually. This spurred me on in writing this short blog post to sum up my experience. And also ask, how are you all feeling?
In summary, after 10 years of hunching over my computer, I got RSI. Badly. So drastic, I actually had to alter my career direction. (For the better it turned out!) No more the Graphic Designer – Hello Art Director! The difference between the two can be huge, or insignificant, depending on agency. In my case, the main difference was the drastic cut down in heavy-duty computer-time in conjunction with a completely different approach to both process and work-style. RSI? Managed.
Since my problems started, I have been listening to more and more designers/computer-users telling me that they too are feeling strains in their hands/arms/shoulders/back – and it is very worrying. Once the problems start, it is very hard to rid. Unless you completely stop whatever it is you are doing to cause the pain in the first place.
I still stand by everything I said in my article. And, if anyone is having problems, I am more than happy to talk you through the science and preventative measure you can do to avoid what happened to me happening to you.
My RSI comes and goes, but is no where near as bad it was then. (I couldn't chop vegetables, let alone flick TV channels!)
Take care of yourselves!
Pic via http://weheartit.com/entry/1442998
3 comments:
My biggest aggravation is regular tension headaches, and I'm awaiting another hospital appointment in the hope it'll help.
Very glad to read that you've been able to manage, Jenny, and even that you've stayed in a similar profession.
Thanks for your comment, David!
Yeah, tension headaches are also a nuisance. I tend to get them at the weekends and holidays when my brain is on 'stand by' – know how you feel.
I hope they go away! Ask your doc about Beta Blockers. They helped me. :)
x
JT
I've tried one or two different beta blockers. An antidepressant was prescribed, too, and I tried a course of acupuncture on the NHS. No joy.
Thinking of hiring a personal head masseuse. ;)
P.s. No email notification of your follow-up comment (I came back after your tweet), but then, I used the name/URL identity option, so Blogger won't know my email address.
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