Tag Archives: numbness

General Safety Issues, Hand Protection

HAND ARM VIBRATION SYNDROME: THE FACTS (GUEST POST)

 If you work with power tools of any variety, the chances are you have experienced some degree of hand-arm vibrations. While limited exposure to these vibrations is unlikely to cause any lasting damage, over exposure can lead to hand-arm syndrome (HAVS) or carpal tunnel syndrome.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates that 2 million people are at risk of developing HAVS.

What is HAVS?

Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome or Vibration White Finger Claims is a debilitating condition that damages the nerves, blood vessels, muscles and joints of the hands, wrists and arms. Those that operate hand-held or hand-guided power on a regular basis are significantly increasing their be at risk of developing the condition. HAVS or Vibration white finger are both permanent and highly debilitating.

Early Symptoms include:

  • Loss of feeling in the fingers
  • Tingling and numbness in the fingers
  • Loss of strength in your hands
  • Tips of your fingers going white, then red and painful.

If you continue to use high-vibration tools these symptoms may get worse, for example:

  • Permanent numbness in hands leading to a complete loss of feeling
  • Inability to pick up small objects such as screw or nails
  • The vibration white finger could happen more frequently and affect more of your fingers

For a more detailed breakdown of symptoms, the HSE have produced an employee guide to hand-arm vibration.

Who is at risk of developing HAVS?

You are at risk from HAVS or Vibration White Finger if you use hand held or guided tools such as:

  • Concrete breakers
  • Sanders
  • Grinders
  • Hammer drills
  • Chipping hammers
  • Chainsaws
  • Hedge trimmers
  • Powered mowers

How can I reduce the risks?

Ultimately it is your employer’s responsibility to protect you against HAVS or Vibration White Finger, but you should remain vigilant and be conscious of the early symptoms. If it is possible try to find a way in which you can do your without using vibrating tools and machines. If this is not an option happen then:

  • Use suitable low-vibration tools.
  • Ensure tools are properly maintained and repaired to avoid increased levels of vibration
  • Take regular breaks from using vibrating
  • Avoid gripping or forcing a tool more than required
  • Store tools so the handles are not cold when in use
  • Keep warm and encourage good circulation
  • Wear anti-vibration gloves 

Asons Solicitors suggest that if someone would like to learn more about the HAVS or Vibration White Finger, or if they would like to better understand the HAVS and Vibration White Finger claims process that information is available at www.asons.co.uk, or via an expert helpline on 01204 521 133. Sent to us by Thomas Fairclough. 

For further information contact:

Email: info@asons.co.uk

Website: www.asons.co.uk

 

General Safety Issues, Uncategorized

DO YOU HAVE TROUBLE “GETTING A GRIP” ON THINGS?

Lately, I have noticed pain in my right thumb and wrist.  Because I use a computer so often,  I am concerned that it could be carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).  Osteoarthritis could be another cause, but thankfully, there is relief for both.  The median nerve provides feeling and movement to the “thumb side” of the hand (the palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and thumb side of the ring finger).The area in your wrist where the nerve enters the hand is called the carpal tunnel. This tunnel is normally narrow,  so any swelling can pinch the nerve and cause pain, numbness, tingling or weakness. This is called carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is common in people who perform repetitive motions of the hand and wrist. Typing on a computer keyboard is probably the most common cause of carpal tunnel. The condition occurs most often in people 30 to 60 years old, and is more common in women than men.

Other causes include:

  • Sewing
  • Driving
  • Assembly line work
  • Painting
  • Writing
  • Use of tools (especially hand tools or tools that vibrate)
  • Sports such as racquetball or handball
  • Playing some musical instruments

Symptoms:

  • Numbness or tingling in the thumb and next two or three fingers of one or both hands
  • Numbness or tingling of the palm of the hand
  • Pain extending to the elbow
  • Pain in wrist or hand in one or both hands
  • Problems with fine finger movements (coordination) in one or both hands
  • Wasting away of the muscle under the thumb (in advanced or long-term cases)
  • Weak grip or difficulty carrying bags (a common complaint)
  • Weakness in one or both hands
  • Pain in thumb when trying to open a jar or door.

Don’t hesitate to consult with your doctor, if you have any of the above symptoms.  The doctor may find:

  • Numbness in the palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and thumb side of the ring finger
  • Weak hand grip
  • Tapping over the median nerve at the wrist may cause pain to shoot from the wrist to the hand (this is called Tinel’s sign)
  • Bending the wrist forward all the way for 60 seconds will usually result in numbness, tingling, or weakness (this is called Phalen’s test)

CTS symptoms may last beyond six months, but can be surgically relieved.  This procedure will release the pressure on the median nerve.  With older adults (me), osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage padding your finger and hand joints begin to wear away.  There are many home treatments.  Your physician may give you certain exercises that will help to lessen your hand pain.  Try hot or cold applications to ease pain, or splinting your thumb or wrist to give it a rest.  Ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin can all help to reduce the swelling of arthritis.  A cortisone shot will give longer-term relief.   Try to keep your joints active, before CTS or osteoarthritis “get a grip” on you!

Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians, American Society for Surgery of the Hand; National Institute on Aging; National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases,  AARP/Strive.