Computer work is only part of the RSI issue, but in a computer-based economy, it is an important part. Many keyboard workers suffer silently, taking frequent breaks and slowing work to reduce the stress. Fearing job loss, career derailment, and unsympathetic employers, they defer remediation. Reduced productivity is institutionalized. Even children are afflicted with pain, as they attempt to learn prized computer skills.
Objective diagnosis is complex and difficult.
Unequal distribution of stress-related ailments is cited by some as evidence of causes unrelated to work, as if equal exposure should cause equal affliction. Disease and affliction never visit everyone equally. Many ailments probe hereditary and other secondary susceptibility. Never before has this caused denial of remedial care. Employers are immobilized, fearing any response might acknowledge blame and legal liability for prior worker injury.