Determining the effectiveness of pencil grips: an electromyographical analysis

Objective data regarding the effectiveness of various shaped pencil grips is not available to support the recommendations of such tools by occupational therapy practitioners. Eighteen right-hand dominant participants, ages 18 to 35 years, completed a writing sample using the three writing tools being tested: a standard #2 pencil with no grip, a standard #2 pencil with a triangular grip, and a standard #2 pencil with a pear-shaped grip. Surface electromyography was used to record the muscle activity in the four primary muscles used during handwriting to determine which writing tool elicited the least amount of motor unit recruitment. Although no significant difference was found, trends were noted that warrant further investigation to ensure practitioners recommend the appropriate pencil grip.