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Published on: February 9, 2013
Normative data on extensor pollicis longus force, lift-off height, and tendon gliding amplitude
Christos Ni Sarigiannis1, Ingrid Andreasson2, Lars Ekström3
1Department of Hand Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden; Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
This study establishes normative values for extensor pollicis longus (EPL) function, finding that EPL extension force is greatest in a functional wrist position and peaks in the third decade. These findings provide crucial reference data for evaluating thumb extensor strength and tendon gliding.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Anatomy
Background:
- The extensor pollicis longus (EPL) is the primary thumb extensor.
- Clinical evaluation often uses a flat hand position, but the hand functions in a functional wrist-extended position (20-30 degrees).
- Understanding EPL function in both positions is crucial for accurate assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine normative reference values for EPL extension force in both flat and functional hand positions.
- To assess normative values for thumb lift-off height.
- To establish normative values for EPL tendon gliding amplitude.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 200 healthy participants (100 males, 100 females).
- Utilized a custom device to measure isolated finger force and record electromyography.
- Documented lift-off test height and EPL tendon gliding amplitude.
Main Results:
- EPL force peaked in the third decade and declined thereafter.
- Median extension force in the functional position (14.0 N females, 21.2 N males) was higher than in the flat position (9.3 N females, 15.8 N males).
- Lift-off height and tendon gliding amplitude showed no significant sex-based differences.
Conclusions:
- Established reference values for EPL extension force, lift-off height, and tendon gliding.
- Maximal EPL force occurs at 30 degrees wrist extension, peaks in the third decade, and declines after the fourth.
- Female EPL force averages approximately 60% of male force.
