Hand-arm vibration syndrome: Workers' experience with functional impairment and disability

Abstract

Study design: Qualitative and descriptive study.

Introduction: Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is a prevalent disease in Canada. There is little work on the perspectives of HAVS patients.

Purpose of the study: Explore perceptions of disability and functional compromise in patients with HAVS.

Methods: Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with HAVS patients and analysed using content analysis.

Results: The 11 participants reported numbness, pain, and reduced dexterity, strength, and sensation. Participants noted that HAVS was an inevitable aspect of their work. They indicated frustration with their condition and viewed it as a disability. To overcome impairments risky strategies are often used. Participants reported lack of support to manage symptoms and overcome work disability.

Discussion: HAVS related impairment is disabling. Workers require improved resources and support to address symptom management and safe strategies to minimize work disability.

Conclusion: HAVS patients experience functional, social, emotional, and psychological disability.

Level of evidence: Not applicable.

Keywords: Functional compromise; Hand-arm vibration syndrome; International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health; Occupational disease; Perceptions of disability; Quality of life.