Midori Handford1, Kiera Lepine2, Kristina Boccia2, Francesca Ruddick2, Darya Alyeksyeyeva2, Aaron Thompson3, D Linn Holness3, Sharon Switzer-McIntyre2. 1. Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Rehabilitation Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Electronic address: midori.handford@gmail.com. 2. Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Rehabilitation Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 3. Department of Medicine and Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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.
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