Related Experiment Videos
Hand muscle weakness in long-term vibration exposure.
L E Necking1, G Lundborg, J Friden
1Department of Hand Surgery, Malmö University Hospital, Sweden. lars.necking@hand.mas.lu.se
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|December 12, 2002
Summary
Workers using vibrating tools showed weaker hand muscles, particularly intrinsic muscles. Early signs like cold intolerance may indicate potential nerve and blood vessel issues from vibration exposure.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Ergonomics
- Neurology
Background:
- Hand-held vibrating tools are common in various industries.
- Prolonged exposure may lead to adverse effects on hand function.
- Understanding the impact on specific muscle groups is crucial for worker safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare hand muscle strength between workers exposed to vibrating tools and a control group.
- To identify specific muscle groups affected by vibration exposure.
- To explore potential early markers for vibration-induced hand impairment.
Main Methods:
- Maximal voluntary strength measurements of grip, pinch, and abduction were performed.
- Comparison between a cohort of 81 vibration-exposed workers and 45 non-exposed controls.
- Assessment of vibration perception and symptoms of cold intolerance.
Main Results:
- Vibration-exposed workers exhibited significantly reduced strength in extrinsic (7%) and intrinsic (19%) hand muscles.
- Nine exposed workers reported reduced vibration perception alongside hand muscle weakness.
- Cold intolerance was observed to precede sensorineural and vasospastic symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Hand muscle strength, especially intrinsic muscles, is impaired by regular exposure to hand-held vibrating tools.
- Cold intolerance may serve as an early indicator of vibration-related adverse effects.
- Evaluating intrinsic muscle strength is essential for assessing hand function impairment in exposed workers.