Hand strength and perceived manual ability among patients with multiple sclerosis

Objectives: To describe hand function among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and to examine the relationship between strength and self-reported abilities. Design: Cross-sectional study using a convenience sample. Setting: Outpatient department at a rehabilitation center. Participants: Forty-four community-dwelling adults with MS (mean age, 49 +/- 9y; range, 34-68y) who were monitored by rehabilitation practitioners. Interventions: Not applicable. Main Outcome Measures: Grip and pinch (tip, lateral, palmar) strengths and Manual Ability Measure (MAM-36). Results: When compared with the 50- to 54-year-old female norms, the pinch and grip strengths of the sample were lower. MAM-36 correlated moderately with right pinch (tip, lateral, palmar) strengths (r range,.51 -. 59; P <.01). Conclusions: Manual ability seems to be more associated with pinch than grip strengths, probably because finger strength and dexterity are both needed to perform many hand tasks.