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Published on: February 20, 2020
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Reduced calf muscle pump function is not explained by handgrip strength measurements.
Atefeh Ghorbanzadeh1, Abdi Abud2, David Liedl3
1Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Division of Vascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Gonda Vascular Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN.
Summary
Handgrip strength (HGS) does not correlate with calf muscle pump function (CPF). HGS is not a reliable indicator for assessing reduced CPF, suggesting distinct underlying causes.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Physiology
Background:
- Reduced calf muscle pump function (CPF) is a significant risk factor for venous thromboembolism and mortality.
- Understanding factors associated with CPF is crucial for risk stratification and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between handgrip strength (HGS) and calf muscle pump function (CPF).
- To determine if HGS can serve as a surrogate marker for assessing reduced CPF.
Main Methods:
- 115 patients underwent noninvasive venous studies, including air plethysmography to measure CPF.
- Maximum HGS was measured bilaterally using a dynamometer.
- Correlation analysis was performed between HGS and CPF measurements.
Main Results:
- Reduced CPF was observed in a significant proportion of patients (46% right leg, 58% left leg).
- Reduced HGS was prevalent (64.3% bilaterally, 20% unilaterally).
- No significant correlation was found between HGS and CPF (Spearman's rho = 0.16 right, 0.10 left).
Conclusions:
- Handgrip strength is not significantly correlated with calf muscle pump function.
- HGS measurements are not an acceptable surrogate for assessing reduced CPF.
- These findings suggest distinct pathophysiological mechanisms underlying HGS and CPF.
