The symptoms of Vibration White Finger (VWF)

The main symptoms of Vibration White Finger (VWF) can be seen in the fingers.  As well as becoming numb and turning white, they may spasm due a sporadic lack of blood supply to the fingers.  The condition is usually not severe and most attacks only cause minor discomfort.  However, in extreme cases - progressive over a period of years - it can lead to skin ulcers and even gangrene. 

Picking up objects such as pins or nails also becomes more difficult as feeling in the fingers decreases, along with a loss of strength and grip in the hands. Furthermore, pain, tingling and numbness in the arms, wrists and hands can make sleep difficult. 

The main symptoms of VWF to look out for in the hands, fingers and arms include:

• Tingling

• Pins and needles

• Coldness

• Numbness

• White patches

If you find any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance and advice. While awaiting treatment, there are several things you can do to stop the symptoms of VWF from becoming any worse:

• Keep your hands as warm as possible to stop spasms in the arteries of the fingers and improve circulation.

• Talk to your GP as medication can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.

• Avoid the original cause of the problem, as the more your vibration your hands are subjected to, the worse your symptoms may get.

• If you are a smoker, stop smoking as tobacco causes the blood vessels to constrict, decreasing the blood flow to the finger tips. 

• Drink hot drinks to stay warm. 

• Eat small meals to maintain your energy, including high protein foods, milk, fish, meat and fresh vegetables.

• Take regular exercise to improve your circulation. 

• Try to avoid sitting for long periods of time - regular exercise, such as walking around a room, moving your arms and legs to maintain your circulation will help make sure that your fingers and toes do not get cold.

• Avoid tight clothing, that may restrict the blood flow, cover your hands and feet and wear a scarf. 

• If your clothes get wet, change them immediately.

• If you are a smoker, stop smoking, as tobacco causes the blood vessels to constrict, decreasing the blood flow to the finger tips.

How to claim for Vibration White Finger
If you think you are entitled to make a claim for Vibration White Finger, call us now on 0800 10 757 95, or use our e-chat service, and we can talk you through the claims process and give you free legal advice.

And rest assured that you will not lose any money from any compensation awarded. If your claim is successful, our solicitors can recover their fees from the other party's insurance company; if unsuccessful, you will be fully protected from all costs and legal fees by our own insurance.