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Fluctuation in grip and pinch strength among normal subjects
V L Young1, P Pin, B A Kraemer
1Division of Plastic Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Mo 63110.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Hand strength, including grip and pinch measurements, fluctuates significantly over time. Repeat testing is essential for accurate hand strength assessment in clinical evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Hand Therapy
Background:
- Grip and pinch strength testing are crucial for assessing hand function.
- These tests are vital for disability ratings and monitoring therapeutic interventions.
- Understanding strength variability is key for accurate clinical interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the variability of grip and pinch strength in healthy individuals.
- To establish the reliability of hand strength measurements over time.
- To investigate diurnal variations in hand strength.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving 95 healthy subjects (61 women, 34 men).
- Grip strength measured with a Jamar dynamometer; lateral pinch strength with a Preston pinch gauge.
- Testing conducted twice weekly for 3 weeks (12 testing periods), including morning and afternoon sessions.
Main Results:
- Mean grip strength showed fluctuations between 19.2% and 23.7%.
- Mean lateral pinch strength varied between 13.8% and 17.6%.
- No significant differences were observed between morning and afternoon measurements.
Conclusions:
- Grip and pinch strength exhibit considerable fluctuation over time.
- Repeat testing is necessary for reliable hand strength assessment.
- Diurnal variations (morning vs. afternoon) do not significantly impact hand strength measurements.