Effects of Contralateral Hand Immersion in Hot Water on Physiological Responses and Subjective Perceptions during Finger Cold-induced Vasodilatation Test

Abstract

This study investigated cold-induced vasodilatation (CIVD) responses in the finger during contralateral hand heating to suggest preventive countermeasures for workers in cold. Thirty three students (23.9 ± 2.4 yr in age, 1.65 ± 0.08 m in height, 55.2 ± 10.5 kg in body mass; 28 females and 5 males) participated in two trials: left middle finger immersion in cold water (4oC) (FC) and right hand immersion in hot water (42oC) combined with FC (FCHH). Both tests consisted of a 10-min rest, 30-min immersion, and 20-min recovery. FCHH had higher mean left middle temperatures compared to FC during immersion and recovery (P<0.05). FCHH had higher Tmin, Tmax, Tmean, amplitude, and resistance index for frostbite when compared to FC (P<0.05). During the immersion and recovery periods, chest and foot temperatures were higher and lower, respectively, in FC than those in FCHH (P<0.05). Heart rate during immersion was higher in FCHH when compared to FC (P<0.05). In summary, the contralateral hand heating during the finger CIVD test resulted in pronounced CIVD responses, and also affected cardiovascular responses. The wearing of at least one glove during cold exposure can be helpful for workers’ comfort and performance.