Hand, Wrist & Arm Health for Court Reporters

Because court reporters use their hands all day every day, they’re susceptible to Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI), such as carpal tunnel, cubital tunnel,tendonitis, epicondylitis, and tenosynovitis. Avoiding RSI isn’t easy because the first thing any doctor or therapist will tell you is to begin by utilizing “ergonomically correct” seating and taking frequent breaks.  That’s virtually impossible for court reporters.  So, what are we to do?

The first step is to consider your occupation a sport, and gently warm up your body before each and every assignment, just as every athlete does before they hit the pavement, floor or ring.  “Gently” warming up is key here, as evidence suggests vigorous stretching may be detrimental.

Now that you’ve gently warmed up your muscles, you’ll want to be sure to sit at your machine with your arms at a 90-degree angle, with your feet flat on the floor, and your back against the chair at a 180-degree angle to the floor

The third thing you’ll want to do, if you don’t already, is implementing a good hydration regimen. Our bodies, like any piece of machinery, have to stay well lubricated or they’ll begin to wear themselves down. That doesn’t necessarily mean just drinking water. It includes both drinking enough water and eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables that help keep your ligaments and tendons flexible and well-nourished.

Fourth — and this is the most unpopular practice that reporters don’t even like to talk about — and that is avoiding caffeine and nicotine.  Coffee should be avoided because it dehydrates us, thus removing our body’s nutrients and leaving our tendons and ligaments subject to injury.  Nicotine, on the other hand, has the sad but true side effect of back and muscle pain, and thus may be sidelining reporters without their knowledge.

Fifth — and this isn’t always possible — but if you have the opportunity, get up and take regular breaks. It’s called “repetitive stress” because you keep doing it, so if you can see your way clear to doing something else for a little while, take five minutes and come back. Your arms, wrists, shoulders, and back will thank you.

Lastly, getting enough sleep and exercising your body, in general, goes a long way to helping you stay in the game. Don’t ignore aches and pains as they arise. See your physician, and take his advice. Court reporting is a physically grueling profession, and it can take a big toll on you if you’re not mindful.