Handgrip strength measurements standardization for better evaluation

ABDALA R; BRANCE ML; FRIGERI A; TOMAT MF; SCHWARTZ N; SANTAGADA J; ZANCHETTA MB; BRUN LR

London

Congreso; WCO-IOF-ESCEO 2023; 2023

WCO-IOF-ESCEO

Introduction:Among the methods to assess muscle strength, handgrip strength (HGS) has been widelyused. This measure correlate moderately with leg strength; and low HGS is associated withdifferent health events. On the other hand, the diagnosis of sarcopenia is based on lowmuscle mass and low muscle function (performance or strength). The literature is diverseregarding HGS measurement methodology, and here are no reference values in our country.Aim: To standardize HGS assessment for its best performance.Materials and methodsAn analytical and descriptive prospective study was carried out in Argentine. A total of 117participants between 18 to 40 years of age were evaluated consecutively. Muscle strength wasevaluated by HGS assessment (Hydraulic Hand Dynamometer, USA). Different measurementswere made in 3 groups comparing different situations; group 1 (n=53) sitting vs. standing.group 2 (n=37) 8 vs. 2 pm and group 3 (n=27) with or without verbal encouragement.Measuring instrument was previously calibrated with a known weight (10, 20 and 30 kg). Theevaluations were carried out by the same qualified technician in each group.Results: The study sample included 43 (37%) male and 74 (67%) female. The mean age in the3 groups was similar (24.13±4.75, 31.03±2.95 and 31.88±5.75). In all groups, greater HGS indominant hand was observed (all p