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Updated: Mar 5, 2026
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Measurement of the Hand Transmitted Vibration of the Human Hand Arm System During Operation of a Hand Tractor
Published on: June 16, 2021
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Hand-arm vibration syndrome: Workers' experience with functional impairment and disability
Midori Handford1, Kiera Lepine1, Kristina Boccia1
1Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Rehabilitation Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) causes significant disability and functional impairment in affected workers. Patients need better support for symptom management and safe work strategies to mitigate disability.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Vibration-induced injuries
- Patient perspectives
Background:
- Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a widespread occupational disease in Canada.
- Limited research exists on the lived experiences and perceptions of patients with HAVS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how patients with HAVS perceive their disability.
- To understand the functional limitations experienced by individuals with HAVS.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative, descriptive study was employed.
- Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 11 patients diagnosed with HAVS.
- Content analysis was used to analyze the interview data.
Main Results:
- Participants reported symptoms including numbness, pain, reduced dexterity, strength, and sensation.
- HAVS was perceived as an unavoidable consequence of work, leading to frustration and a sense of disability.
- Patients often used risky strategies to cope with impairments and reported a lack of support for symptom management and work disability.
Conclusions:
- Impairments resulting from HAVS are significantly disabling.
- HAVS patients experience multifaceted disability, encompassing functional, social, emotional, and psychological aspects.
- There is a critical need for enhanced resources and support systems to aid workers in managing HAVS symptoms and minimizing work-related disability.
