This study investigated the extent of upper extremity disability and deficit in Quality of Life (QoL) caused by HAVS, whether such effects were related to the Stockholm Workshop Staging (SWS) and if the extent of disability could be identified from quantitative testing. Individuals, who had been SWS staged, were sent the well-validated DASH and the SF-36v2 QoL questionnaires for self-administration. A response rate of 50% was obtained.

HAVS cases had significantly worse DASH disability, QoL physical and mental component scores compared to published normal values. HAVS cases with apparent co-existing CTS had even higher disability scores. There was a clear, linear relationship between both the DASH disability score and the physical component of the QoL and sensorineural (Sn) SWS, but not with the vascular SWS. Individuals at SWS Sn3 also had a reduction in the mental component QoL scores. Stepwise regression analyses showed that DASH disability score, and both QoL components were related to Stockholm sensorineural rather than vascular staging. Both physical constructs (QoL and DASH) showed consistent significant relationships with tests of handgrip strength=purdue pegboard>thermal perception test. These findings may have important implications regarding management of the affected worker, medico-legal issues and the assessment of vibration-exposed workers.