Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome [HAVS]: What Do We Know So Far? - Journal Review.

Abstract

Background: Since over century it has been known that hand to arm transmitted vibrations (HAV) can affect health and quality of life. Exposure over certain level and intensity over time are risk causes of Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS). Symptoms varies from the damaged structures which most commonly are secondary Raynaud Phenomenon known as Vibration Induced White Finger (VWF), carpal tunnel syndrome, tingling, loss of manual dexterity, osteoarthritis or even Dupuytren's contracture. The usage of pneumatic vibrating tools among physical workers and specialists like dentists, without any doubt has grown significantly since the start of previous technological era. Unfortunately, development of medicine is not sufficient to reverse harmful effects of vibrations on human body but is able to diagnose and treat symptoms faster and with better efficiency than it used to in the past. Brief update and awareness booster of occupational disease which is silently present in our society, giving more insight and knowledge about current possibilities of treatment and diagnosis for medical personnel and everyone interested.

Material and methods: The article presents actual state of knowledge and scientific discoveries collected and researched via databases of platforms: Journal of Education Health and Sport, PubMed, Google Scholar, National Library of Medicine, Elsevier. Used keywords in research: Vibration induced White Finger, HAVS, Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome.

Conclusion: While full protection from occupational vibrations is not possible, we should advance in spreading knowledge of occupational hazards, updating and regulating work standards policies, as continue research in new aimed therapies and effects of vibrations on human body.