Grip and pinch strength: Normative data for healthy Indian adults

Introduction: Normative values of grip and pinch strength are used to determine the effect of treatment, to assess patients' initial limitation and provide a baseline for re-assessment of patient progress. Data gathered from western populations cannot be used for reference in Indian populations due to variations in genetic, environmental and nutritional factors. Methods: A convenience sample of 1005 healthy adults was recruited for this descriptive study. Grip and pinch strength were measured with elbow positioned at 0 degrees, 45 degrees, 90 degrees and full elbow flexion using a JAMAR dynamometer and B&L Pinch gauge. Results: Men presented significantly higher values for grip strength (p <= 0.001) at 0 degrees of elbow flexion (37.8 kg) than women (22.12 kg). For remaining positions of the elbow, average grip strength values in men were 33 kg and in women were 20 kg. Men presented significantly higher values of tip, palmar and key pinch (3.9, 6.7 and 7.2 kg) than women (3.2, 4.71 and 4.81 kg). Grip strength was significantly different at different positions of the elbow (p <= 0.001); it was highest at 0 degrees and lowest at 135 degrees of elbow flexion among men. Conclusions: Findings from study will provide reference values for grip, tip, palmar and key pinch strength for healthy Indian adults. Grip and pinch strength of healthy Indian adults is less compared with age and gender-matched population from other continents.