Measurement of hand grip strength among healthy adults by modified sphygmomanometer: a normative study in BANGLADESH

Abstract

Background and objective: Hand grip strength is a useful measurement for individuals. Grip strength is an essential prerequisite for good performance of the upper limb, hence it is important to evaluate it correctly. However, one of the main difficulties in evaluating the grip strength is the absence of valid norms. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop normative value for maximum grip strength of persons aged 18 years and older. Furthermore, this study explores correlation between dominant Hand Grip Strength with demographic factors and anthropometric measurements. Methodology: This study was done by quantitative method. The nature of the study is cross sectional study. The sampling technique was quota sampling. The study participants’ age were 18 years and above. For HGS analysis, the 350 participants were divided into seven categories based on age: (a) 18–24 years; (b) 25–31 years; (c) 32–38 years; (d) 39-45 years; (e) 46-52 years; (f) 53-58 years and above 58 years. Each group included equal number (n=50) participants with 25 males and 25 females. The data was collected by using modified sphygmomanometer, consent form, information sheet, stadiometer, weighing scale and tape measure. Result: In this present study there were 350 participants were selected. Where the male participants were 175 and female participants were 175. Result from the study peak level of grip strength is shown among middle aged people and GS diminishes curvilinearly with age, and men are consistently stronger than women. In addition to age and gender, hand length & breadth, body height and weight proved to be the best indicators of grip strength. Conclusion: HGS is used widely in clinical practice and research to assess the impact of a variety of disorders on hand function. This study provides a large sample of normative value for clinical use in hand and upper limb rehabilitation, and possible screening for other health issues. It explores the relationship of grip strength with demographics & anthropometric measurements and found significant relationships with some factors. Key words: Hand Grip Strength, Modified Sphygmomanometer, Normative data.