IRSST - Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail

Development of an Awareness-Raising Tool on Hypothenar Hammer Syndrome

Abstract

Workers using vibrating tools are exposed to the risk of developing hypothenar hammer syndrome, a disease caused by thrombosis of the cubital artery, leading to a reduction in blood flow in the fingers. Located in the palm of the hand, this artery is insufficiently protected by muscles and therefore particularly vulnerable to impact and vibration, and thus to repeated hand trauma. The disease can be confused with other diseases or pass unnoticed since it manifests by the appearance of episodes of white finger, hand pain and intolerance to cold, symptoms similar to Raynaud’s phenomenon.

The aim of this activity is to develop an awareness-raising tool on hypothenar hammer syndrome

Additional Information

Type: Knowledge Transfer Activity
Number: 2015-0035
Status: Completed
Year of completion: 2017
Team:
  • François Ouellet (IRSST)
  • Alice Turcot (Direction régionale de santé publique)
  • Pierre Marcotte (IRSST)
  • Linda Savoie (IRSST)