If we do this over a period of time, nerve damage and other soft tissue injuries may occur. Whole body vibration affects the entire body. The main exposure for most of us would be riding in a car or truck unless we happen to work on a vibrating platform. Segmental vibration occurs in one part of the body and is most common when using power tools. This disorder affects the small blood vessels in the fingers and can cause significant pain and loss of feeling.
Vibration has other effects as well.
People who use vibrating tools often have to grip harder to maintain control, thus adding a forceful exertion as a risk factor. You only have to watch a construction worker using a jack hammer to see how vibration affects their bodies. Bundling up to keep warm can keep out the cold, but wearing layers of clothing can also decrease range of motion and increase the likelihood of injury. See section on Poorly Fitting or Poorly Chosen Gloves. Many people are also adversely affected by cold in various other ways.