Changes in the peripheral nerves in rats induced by vibration.

Effects of long-term low frequency vibrations on the structure of the sciatic and plantar nerves were examined in Wistar strain rats. Decrease in total number of nerve fibers was noted. This was associated with altered distribution of myelinated fiber diameters, disturbances in axon structure and with fiber demyelination. The extend of lesions depended upon duration of exposure and distance from the source of vibrations.