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Grip and pinch strength in relation to function in denervated hands.
P Rajkumar1, R Premkumar, J Richard
1Schieffelin Leprosy Research and Training Centre, Karigiri 632 106, Tamil Nadu. pprk_in@yahoo.com
Indian Journal of Leprosy
|March 11, 2003
Summary
Tripod pinch strength is crucial for basic daily activities in leprosy patients. This hand strength measure significantly impacts daily living, highlighting its importance in rehabilitation and functional recovery.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Hand Surgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Leprosy often causes motor nerve impairment, affecting hand function.
- Basic Activities of Daily Living (BADL) are frequently compromised in individuals with hand impairments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between grip and pinch strengths and BADL in leprosy patients.
- To identify specific hand strength measures that predict functional limitations.
Main Methods:
- Sixty-two leprosy patients with hand motor nerve impairment participated.
- Grip and various pinch strengths (pulp-to-pulp, lateral, tripod) were measured.
- Basic Activities of Daily Living were assessed using a standardized rating scale.
Main Results:
- A significant correlation was found between overall grip/pinch strengths and BADL.
- Multiple regression analysis revealed tripod pinch strength as the sole significant independent predictor of BADL.
- 95.2% of patients with hand impairment reported experiencing disabilities.
Conclusions:
- Tripod pinch strength is the most critical hand strength component affecting BADL in leprosy.
- Targeting tripod pinch strength in interventions may improve functional independence.
- Hand impairment in leprosy strongly associates with disability, underscoring the need for functional assessments.