Correlation of hand functionality and grip strengths with anthropometric measurements

BACKGROUND: Using objective anthropometric measurement data and anthropometric ratios, grip strength and hand functionality can be evaluated. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to obtain anthropometric measurements regarding the forearm and hand, to evaluate the hand functionality in addition to hand and finger grip strengths, and to investigate the correlation between these values. METHODS: One-hundred eight-four subjects between 18 and 25 years were included in the study. Forearm and hand anthropometric measurements and ratios were measured. Hand and lateral grip strengths were evaluated. Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT) was used to assess hand functionality. RESULTS: A statistically weak and consistently negative correlation between the ratios of forearm length to forearm/wrist circumferences and the ratio of hand length to metacarpal head circumference and hand-lateral grip strengths was found. There was a statistically weak and consistently negative correlation between these ratios and the subtests of JTHFT. It was shown that there was a statistically weak-moderate positive correlation between the hand-lateral grip strengths and JTHFT subtests. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, when evaluating grip strength and hand functionality, forearm and hand anthropometric measurements and ratios, which could affect the results, should be considered.