A construction worker using a jackhammer experiences decreased tactile sensitivity in their hands. Which failure mode becomes likely when prolonged vibration exposure exceeds mechanoreceptor adaptation limits?

💡 Explanation

Prolonged vibration leads to desensitization of mechanoreceptors because the constant stimulation exceeds adaptation capabilities, therefore impairing the ability to distinguish between closely spaced points. Rather than sympathetic activation or enhanced Ruffini firing, the adaptation limits are exceeded.

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