Numb Hands

[Green-Cuts]

Hey

I have seen a few posts on this but am wondering the best type of gloves to get. What else would I need to do to prevent carple tunnel and stop the numbness in my hands. There are some days that the fingers I use to pull my pull string are just throbbing and feel numb. I try switching hands and then those fingers get the problem.

Thanks
BJ

[jameson]

You might try some anti-vibration/gel pack gloves when using your equipment. It may help.

[howardsells2000]

My hands are numb, I was wondering if anyone else has this problem. My hands are usually sore and stiff also. I am a one man operation so I mow, trim and blow all by myself. I was hoping it wasn't just me.

[TLS]

GEEZE guys....what mowers are you using that cause this!?

[J&R Landscaping]

Pistol grips might be the cause. I guess I don't mow enough as of yet to notice it though but it will probably show sooner or later! Not that I want it to!!!

[Freddy_Kruger]

I get that, but not too bad, from my snow blower but my buddy can't work more than a couple hours on it with out hands numbing up. I think its the person as well as the equipment, some people are more susceptable and some equipment vibrates more.

[TLS]

some equipment vibrates more.

Mowers shouldn't!

[Freddy_Kruger]

Mowers shouldn't!
No i haven't had a problem with my mower ( toros 21") but my snow blower is 27" and 10.5HP or something and it has pistol grips and vibrates like crazy. It's a NOMA.

I've read on this forum ppl complaining about other lawn equipment that vibrates like trimmers or edgers (forget which) but I don't have a problem with those either.

[john_incircuit]

Ok, the reality is that the hand – arm vibrations are a pretty serious problem, but largely ignored or de- emphasis in the US.

There are a number of good write ups available on the Internet, including this government site in the UK: http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg296.pdf

While many of the trimmers and blowers are available with AVS, most of the mowers have no significant AVS provisions. Even on a $10k mower, the engine is mounted straight to the frame.

I just don’t get how Stihl can put anti vibration mounts into a home owner chain saw, but professionals accept that Honda mounts the engine straight to the chassis on their commercial 21 mowers. $10 worth of AVS would make a world of difference.

At the end, it is really up to us. If we keep buying mowers from companies that don’t provide sufficient measures against the hands – arm vibration, it is our fault. The OSHA equivalent is Europe requires that all mowers list the vibrations category and this determents basically how long the equipment can be used every week.

$10 worth of Anti Vibrations Systems can make a world of difference. A doctor visit is at least $100. How much sense does this make??

John

[cwlawley]

^Sounds like you are trying to make a political movement out of AVS.

Anyways, try taking some tylenol or something before you start the day. It may help.

[Audrey]

I'd gladly pay extra for AVS. Cutting with a chainsaw for several hours a couple of days in a row causes me sleepless nights. My arms thump within an hour of laying down and I'm up because of the pain. Poor circulation I guess? The hand held blower is a close second.

Even the Turf Tigers get me. I try not to hold on tight and sometimes even try to use just a couple of fingers. I tried pipe insulation on the sticks but it didn't really work out too well. The vibration seemed to transfer through it.

A

[LALawnboy]

Hey

I have seen a few posts on this but am wondering the best type of gloves to get. What else would I need to do to prevent carple tunnel and stop the numbness in my hands. There are some days that the fingers I use to pull my pull string are just throbbing and feel numb. I try switching hands and then those fingers get the problem.

Thanks
BJ


BJ, i too get this from time to time, especially on the long days. i picked up a pair of thick cowhide gloves at home cheapo, ran about $12 (they look like herding gloves, not the regular gardener type). when my hands and fingers start going numb, i throw the gloves on and it helps tremendously.

[Freddy_Kruger]

Now I remember MY BLue bird power raker was murder on the hands.

[topsites]

sigh, I tell you guys every spring you will complain about this come June, and look what happens but did they do what I said to do? Well, some I hope did :)
Ok, one more time:
1) get a T-bar operated Toro

2) One not too expensive fix is to buy Echo D-handles and install them on everything 2-cycle handheld (trimmers and edgers anyway). That is what I do, here's a Stihl with the Echo D-handle (it is a very comfortable handle, like ergonomic or something):
http://stonypointlawncare.com/images/dhandle.jpg

[Mrk'sLawn]

Hey

I have seen a few posts on this but am wondering the best type of gloves to get. What else would I need to do to prevent carple tunnel and stop the numbness in my hands. There are some days that the fingers I use to pull my pull string are just throbbing and feel numb. I try switching hands and then those fingers get the problem.

Thanks
BJ

I get the numbness in both hands also. Some days, when I'm finished mowing and finally sit down, my hands feel just like two balloons.. I use both the pistol grips and the ecs grips. I get it from both.. I just starting using very thin leather gloves and they seem to be helping.. Time will tell.

Mark

[CutInEdge Lawn Care]

Numbness Dumbness!! Yes my wrist and fingers go so numb somedays I almost cant stand the tingling. With the pistol grip I notice it more on the smaller yrds where it's turn, turn, turn. The repetive squeezing is what gets me.

[Mickhippy]

I was getting the numbness (HAVS) in my left hand from the trimmer. I got myself some of these...
http://www.otbproducts.com.au/safety_products/summerweight_av_gloves.htm

I only use one glove on my left hand on the D handle while trimming and it made heaps of difference. Almost back to normal now. I do look like a freak (Michael Jackson one glove) but if it helps, so be it!

They are very comfortable and the lycra makes them nice and cool supprisingly. Must be the sweat catching the breeze.
Only down side is I cant use both gloves while trimming. The gel pads make holding the throttle etc very difficult as make the handle feel very thick. Almost feels like its falling out of my hand all the time. But like I said, on the D handle its fine.

Come to think of it, you can get Gel tape for handles etc....
http://www.otbproducts.com.au/safety_products/shock_tool_wrap.htm

Best to get onto this problem as you can loose your fingers if you dont.

[TLS]

Best to get onto this problem as you can loose your fingers if you dont.

Damn....now where did I leave my fingers....I know they're here somewhere! :laugh:

[Mickhippy]

Haaaaaaaaa! Very funny!lol You know what I mean! Geeeez! ha

[JJLandscapes]

i went to the doctor because i would wake up with my hands and arms numb last year during work( first year using a wb) he said take vitamin b6 or 12 pills not sure which i will check later.

its good for your nerves and i guess helped ease tyhe pain long enough for my hands to get used to the mower an n d this year im cutting alot more and no numbess so who knows



BLUEBIRD POWER RAKE IS THE MOST VIOLENT ON THE HANDS AND FOREARMS

[TrueCut Lawn Mowing]

I have AVS on my Mower and it is a definent plus. I get no vibration in the handles and wear only padded biking gloves to keep my hands from blistering.

[Green-Cuts]

Hello

It is not from the vibration on the mowers as much as it is pulling on the pull cords all day long. Like this morning I can hardle extened my 2 middle finger.
No fliping the bird for me today...LOL

THanks
BJ

[PMLAWN]

I know there is a great post of what is happening to cause this -- it has to do with the vibration busting blood cells up. Good reading.
The carpel tunnel is from the pistol grips and the way you hand works. Best answer to all these problems-- Employees-- which of course causes a set of all new problems!

[greeneone]

I had similar problems with that but my fingers would feel itchy and prickly. My guess is the vibrations causes some nerve shock. But if your hands are numb, could be bad circulation due to how you are holding the equipment?

[Mickhippy]

You guys should research HAVS more.....

http://www.ohcow.on.ca/resources/handbooks/havs/HAVS.pdf

[Ed Ryder]

Hey

I have seen a few posts on this but am wondering the best type of gloves to get. What else would I need to do to prevent carple tunnel and stop the numbness in my hands. There are some days that the fingers I use to pull my pull string are just throbbing and feel numb. I try switching hands and then those fingers get the problem.

Thanks
BJ

At one of the local Lescos here there is a guy who's hand flops around like crazy. I thought it was probably Parkinsons. One day I finally asked him what was wrong with him. He told me it was NERVE DAMAGE FROM USING WEEDWACKERS!

I wear leather gloves all day long. And I use Kawasaki weedwackers, which are lightweight, powerful, and don't vibrate. I have no problems.

[Dunn's]

Another great idea here. Now don't laugh but when done it makes almost everything in life easier. OK you ready?

[Dunn's]

EXERCISE Not just exercise from work but full body exercise after work and on your days off and yes even through the winter during off season. I know you guys probably wont listen and when you get home from working and your hands are killing you. You will still pop open a beer which helps contribute to most physical problems especially bad blood circulation. when you get home if your sore do some stretches maybe a light workout (take an epsom salt bath this works miracles) and relax.It will make a world of diference

[Freddy_Kruger]

I download my favorite tv shows like ultimate fighter and watch it on my computer while on a stationary bike. time flys.

[PMLAWN]

EXERCISE Not just exercise from work but full body exercise after work and on your days off and yes even through the winter during off season. I know you guys probably wont listen and when you get home from working and your hands are killing you. You will still pop open a beer which helps contribute to most physical problems especially bad blood circulation. when you get home if your sore do some stretches maybe a light workout (take an epsom salt bath this works miracles) and relax.It will make a world of diference

I fully agree- I weight lift -- 12OZ at a time
Tried the Epsom salt but the bubbles tickled my bu**

[Green-Cuts]

LOL....

Butt tickling sounds kinda fun I should try that. I am going to try some mechanic Gloves to see if that works.
THanks
Bj

[BLandL]

numb hands can also mean the start of a disease. its called white finger and its a type of raynauds disease. Raynaud's is caused by a restriction in the blood supply to the extremities, usually the fingers and toes.

It can also affect the ears and nose. The parts initially turn white and dead-looking and then become inflamed. An attack may be accompanied by significant pain, numbness or a tingling sensation.

With Vibration White Finger (VWF), the fingers may go into spasm.

This is due to an intermittent lack of blood supply to the fingers.

The condition is usually not severe and attacks only cause minor discomfort. But it can lead to skin ulcers and even gangrene.

And it can be progressive over a period of several years.

VWF is triggered by continuous use of vibrating hand machinery, but some forms of primary Raynaud's have no trigger.

Vibration causes it...big time...just looking out for my fellow lco's

[ChadsLawn]

carpel tunnel is nothing sweet to have. I have a bad case of it in my right hand.. But mine isnt from mowing. Its from my last I had. I sold auto parts and in the left hand was a phone. The right was hitting numbers on the key board all day. Now my right hand goes numb with the slightest use. But it gets worse. You will have pain that goes up into your shoulder as well. I wear a arm brace everynight to bed. This helps some. I have to keep my arm level with my body all night. If I dont my hand goes numb and my arm hurts.
My only cure is surgery. I tried to get that job to cover it. But my boss and everyone else knew I use to mow. They told me workers comp wouldnt cover it because of my past work experience. I argued it for months then gave up.

So take care of your hands.

[4curbappeal]

Hey

I have seen a few posts on this but am wondering the best type of gloves to get. What else would I need to do to prevent carple tunnel and stop the numbness in my hands. There are some days that the fingers I use to pull my pull string are just throbbing and feel numb. I try switching hands and then those fingers get the problem.

Thanks
BJ
Hustler H bar or Toro T bar !

I know that buying a new mower probably isn't the answer you want, but pistol grips are going wear you out.

[GardnerLandscaping]

when i was just doing my own yard and using a homelite trimmer, i would get this really bad from the vibration.

i don't get it now since i'm using a better trimmer, getting more exercise, and drinking less soda pop.

i was also spending about 80 weeks on the computer and had poor circulation from smoking tobacco, drinking too much soda pop, and not getting regular exercise.

i find that propping your whole forearm on the desk and using a foam pad to increase circulation helps fight tunnel carpal. if you're doing something like propping your arm out the window of your car, you're probably cutting off circulation and contributing to the problem.

vitamin b deficiency is also serious. it causes nerve damage and causes you to do things like switch words.

vibration, poor circulation from a variety of sources, and lack of vitamin b can all contribute to this nerve related problem.

in a related thread about excessive sweating. if you're taking anti-depressants or have previously taken anti-depressants, this can cause excessive sweating. i would suspect other medication as well. anti-depressants linger in your system even after you stop taking them. diet might be an issue as well. i tend to drink a gallon of sweat tea or other fluids each day.

[BQLC]

I know there is a great post of what is happening to cause this -- it has to do with the vibration busting blood cells up. Good reading.
The carpel tunnel is from the pistol grips and the way you hand works. Best answer to all these problems-- Employees-- which of course causes a set of all new problems!
this could move the pain from your hands to a lower location Ha Ha:laugh:

[evenshift]

This is my first year full time... starting to develop HAVS already (fingers numb, stiffness - particularly in the morning). I don't know how many other fulltimers experience this, but it's def should be discussed more. Some good links in this thread. My Stihl FS90 trimmer is my the main culprit for me. I love it, but considering jumping to Husqvarna 324LDx (specifically designed for low vibes). Going to purchase some low vibe gloves this week and see if it helps... Just bought a 36" Toro with T-Bar, so hope that will help - but for a 21", Husqvarna has this model I REALLY like the looks of HUSQVARNA WB 53S e here (http://international.husqvarna.com/node1817.aspx?nid=100105&pid=91192) - is this available in US?? Exactly what I'm looking for - prefer front wheel drive... mock if you must ;)

[whosedog]

I had surgery on my right hand basal joint,it used to feel like like a knife jamming into the joint at the base of my thumb.They removed the joint and replaced it with a tendon graft taken from my wrist. I did it winter time so by spring I was able to work on the lawns with a splint then nothing later.Lost some strength in my grip,but the pain is still gone 3 years later. Get tingling a lot when trimming bushes just have to pace myself. I let my 22 year old twins do the bull work now, time for Dad to slow down; don't recuperate as quickly as I used to.

[Mickhippy]

HAVS has just reared its ugly head again from me to. Been back for about 4 weeks and doc said just use the antivib gloves and see how it goes. (gee thanks) Ive read there is medication now for HAVS but doc didnt know anything about it.

Its winter here so things are pretty slow with work so its been good not to use machinery but Im on the way out to do a full day today.
What I have found this time is that it went from full on numb/pins and needles to now feeling like there is melted wax or dry glue (or a ring maybe) around my little finger and some of my palm. Tips are sensitive. Very difficult to play guitar as cant feel the string under the tip properly and it hurts. Also lost strength in grip!

[Ruben Rocha]

Here is my 2 cents.
Been there
The problem is not only repetitive syndrome but from vibration.
You can try switching hands on occasion and or try exercise.
In either case the pain will not go away for several weeks. Once the symptoms have developed.
If it is from vibrations switching hands will help.
If it is repetitive syndrome then you can do what I did.
Buy a sponge rubber ball. Say the size of a baseball.
As you are driving squeeze the ball in a fashion where you move your fingers the full motion. Fully compressed to fully expanded.
Again once the symptoms start it is a long wait for improvement.
Ask your doctor they will tell you the same.
Another thing that may help is to re-adjust your handles so your wrist is at a different angle from time to time.

BTW the medication is usually alpha blockers. You don't want to go there. Because the next option is surgery.