Evaluation of grip strength measurements after Colles' fracture: a methodological study

Maximal isometric grip strength during short and sustained contractions was registered in 28 females and five males with displaced Colles' fracture involving the distal radio-ulnar joint. After reduction the patients were immobilized with plaster cast or with external fixation. The reliability of the measurements of the uninjured side was high and stable over a two-year follow-up period. The between-occasion reliability of the injured side was lower than that of the uninjured side. At each session the intensity of pain was measured. There was a reduction in pain after two years. The discriminatory ability of the measurements was satisfactory. It is suggested that the measurement methods and the present findings may serve as guidance in physiotherapy for these patients, especially if the uninjured side is used as reference.