Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 12, 2025
Measurement of the Hand Transmitted Vibration of the Human Hand Arm System During Operation of a Hand Tractor
Published on: June 16, 2021
Applied Force Alters Sensorineural and Peripheral Vascular Function in a Rat Model of Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome
Kristine Krajnak1, Christopher Warren, Xueyan Xu
1From the Physical Effects Research Branch, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Morgantown, West Virginia.
Objective:
This study described the effects of applied force (grip) on vascular and sensorineural function in an animal model of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS).
Methods:
Rat tails were exposed to 0, 2, or 4 N of applied force 4 hr/d for 10 days. Blood flow and sensitivity to transcutaneous electrical stimulation and pressure were measured.
Results:
Applied force increased blood flow but reduced measures of arterial plasticity. Animals exposed to force tended to be more sensitive to 250-Hz electrical stimulation and pressure applied to the tail.
Conclusions:
Effects of applied force on blood flow and sensation are different than those of vibration. Studies examining co-exposures to force and vibration will provide data that can be used to determine how these factors affect risk of workers developing vascular and sensorineural dysfunction (ie, HAVS).
