Raynaud’s Phenomenon

Fingers and toes feel numb and cold due to narrowed blood vessels, often triggered by cold or stress.
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About

Raynaud’s Phenomenon causes some areas of the body—usually fingers and toes—to feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress. Tiny blood vessels narrow (vasospasm), limiting blood flow. Affected skin may turn white, then blue, and finally red as circulation returns.

This condition is often invisible.

Many disabilities, including this one, may not have outward signs—people can be significantly impacted even if they appear “fine” on the outside.

Common Challenges

  • Difficulty handling tools or equipment when hands are cold
  • Pain or numbness in fingers affecting fine motor tasks
  • Avoidance of cold environments or unheated workspaces
  • Frequent need to warm hands or take breaks to restore circulation
  • Anxiety about symptom triggers in shared or open-plan offices

Practitioner Help

  • Identify roles in temperature-controlled environments
  • Recommend strategies for self-management (e.g., hand warmers, gloves)
  • Support communication with employers about environmental needs
  • Encourage stress-reduction techniques to minimise flare-ups
  • Liaise with occupational therapists for workplace adaptations

Common Accommodations

  • Heated workstations or hand-warming devices
  • Allowing warm-up breaks (e.g., access to warm water or heat packs)
  • Flexible dress code to permit gloves or layered clothing
  • Job restructuring or redistributing tasks
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Notes

Raynaud’s symptoms can be triggered by subtle temperature changes and stress, so proactive management and a supportive work environment are key to maintaining comfort and productivity.

February is Raynaud’s Awareness Month

Resources

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