Characterization of frequency-dependent responses of the vascular system to repetitive vibration.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Occupational exposure to hand-transmitted vibration can result in damage to nerves and sensory loss. The goal of this study was to assess the frequency-dependent effects of repeated bouts of vibration on sensory nerve function and associated changes in nerves. METHODS: The tails of rats were exposed to vibration at 62.5, 125, or 250 Hz (constant acceleration of 49 m/s2) for 10 days. The effects on sensory nerve function, nerve morphology, and transcript expression in ventral tail nerves were measured. RESULTS: Vibration at all frequencies had effects on nerve function and physiology. However, the effects tended to be more prominent with exposure at 250 Hz. CONCLUSION: Exposure to vibration has detrimental effects on sensory nerve function and physiology. However, many of these changes are more prominent at 250-Hz exposure than at lower frequencies.