Normative values of grip and pinch strength and their predictor factors: PERSIAN cohort study of healthcare staff.

PURPOSE

The present study aims to provide normative values for Hand Grip Strength (HGS) and Hand Pinch Strength of healthcare staff and evaluate key body anthropometric predictors of these strengths.

METHODS

This cross sectional study was conducted on 2,337 healthcare staff. HGS and pinch strength were assessed for both hands using a hydraulic hand dynamometer and pinch gauge. Descriptive data were reported for dominant and non-dominant HGS and pinch strength, after stratification by gender, age, and height. Multivariatelinear regression analysis was performed to assess predictor variables.

RESULTS

The maximum HGS values were identified in men aged 35 to 40, measuring 38.00 ± 7.81 kg, and in women aged 50 to 55, measuring 22.20 ± 4.13 kg. The highest pinch strength values were recorded in men aged 45 to 50, with measurements of 7.16 ± 1.48 kg, and in women aged 35 to 40, with measurements of 4.24 ± 1.15 kg. The predictor variables for dominant HGS and pinch strength exhibited 59% and 51% prediction for variations in dominant HGS and pinch strength, respectively, using gender, height, and wrist circumference as predictors. Height (for grip: dominant hand: β = 0.33, CI [0.28, 0.37]; for pinch: dominant hand: β = 0.04, CI [0.02, 0.05]) was the most effectively correlated anthropometric variable.

CONCLUSION

The findings demonstrate differences in HGS and pinch strength among different gender and age groups. Multiple linear regression analysis highlights the crucial role of anthropometric variables in evaluating hand strength. These results can provide guidance for future research and clinical assessments.

TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER

Not applicable.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III (analytical cross-sectional study on big sample size).