It is not true that Upper Limb Disorders only affect keyboard workers. Both office-based and manual jobs can cause RSI conditions. Other activities such as sports and hobbies may also cause or increase the risk of RSI. Employees are vulnerable to RSI in a wide range of occupations, for example: assembly line work; packing; meat and poultry preparation; laboratory work; clerical work; musicians; hairdressing etc.

Experts are becoming concerned about the potential for RSI to affect school children and there is evidence of children as young as seven suffering from RSI because of overuse of computers at school and in the home. This is the first generation of children who have used computers from early childhood while their muscles and bones are developing and as yet there has been little research into the likely long-term effects. Professor Buckle (Robens Centre) states "Most parents seem unaware of the possible dangers of children sitting for long periods unsupported, with necks twisted and wrists over extended", and warns of the dangers to children of using computers that have been set up for adults.