Exploring cold sensitivity among workers with hand-arm vibration syndrome

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Vascular Medicine
• Neurology

Background:

• Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) primarily affects upper extremities, with limited research on lower extremity functional impairments.
• Vascular effects in HAVS are a known cause of functional deficits.
• Cold intolerance and sensitivity are key symptoms of HAVS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and severity of cold intolerance in both hands and feet of workers with HAVS.
• To identify factors associated with cold intolerance in the upper and lower extremities of HAVS patients.

Main Methods:

• A combined survey and retrospective chart review approach was employed.
• The Cold Intolerance Symptom Severity (CISS) questionnaire was adapted for both upper and lower extremities.
• Statistical analyses included Spearman correlations, Wilcoxon signed rank tests, and regression models.

Main Results:

• Cold intolerance and sensitivity were frequently reported in the feet of HAVS workers, correlating with hand symptoms.
• Symptom severity scores (CISS) were generally higher for the hands compared to the feet.
• Predictors for hand CISS scores included QuickDASH and Stockholm vascular scale; foot CISS scores were predicted by foot vibration exposure, foot plethysmography severity, and QuickDASH scores.

Conclusions:

• Cold intolerance and sensitivity manifest in both hands and feet in workers with HAVS.
• Comprehensive assessment and treatment of cold intolerance in both extremities are crucial for improving functional outcomes.
• Clinicians should consider evaluating and managing symptoms in both upper and lower extremities for HAVS patients.