I have been told that I may want to reconsider studying sign language as my career path because many interpreters develop carpal tunnel! Is this true?? Is there anything I could do to prevent it? Exercises? Any preventative actions?
Thank you, any help would be great : )
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Yes, there is some risk of repetitive motion injuries (carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, bursitis), but there are preventive measures you can take. It would be a shame to give up a career you love just because some interpreters don’t do what it takes.
RMIs can be Prevented
“Predisposition” does not have to equal “necessity.” Injury prevention for Sign Language interpreters and others using sign language is similar to athletics.
* Warm up before signing at least 15 minutes.
* Limber your fingers, hands, arms and shoulders by going through “range of motion” exercises. Flex fingers, hands and elbows, roll wrists, shoulders, and neck.
* Stretch the tendons and ligaments to be used. Gently but firmly, pull fingers backwards over the back of the hand. Pull the shoulder down while pulling the head/neck away in the opposite direction.
* For extended periods of signing, take breaks after an hour and a half or two hours. Rest for at least 15 minutes before continuing.
* If interpreting, have a partner to trade off with.
* Pace yourself. Don’t continue for too many hours in a given day.
* Make sure your chair is ergonomically correct. If standing, don’t stand in one position for extended periods.
* Strengthen your muscles with regular, moderate exercise.
Periodic massages and other therapies can help relax and rejuvenate tired muscles. If injuries do occur, seek medical attention while it’s still manageable. Better to go through therapy now than surgery later.
For all the pleasure and service it brings, signing is not without its risks. Injuries happen. But they can be avoided or at least minimized with proper care, preparation and precautions. Warm up, pace yourself, cool down and don’t overdo it. Use a partner for interpreting assignments over two hours. And if it hurts, stop! Get treatment. Keep active in sign language as long as you want to – not until it hurts too badly to continue.