Abstract

An investigation into normative values for fine hand dexterity and its relation with pinch and grip strength among healthy young Indian adults

Author(s):Paul Anila, Gaokar Prajakta and Gosavi Nikeeta

An investigation into normative values for fine hand dexterity and its relation with pinch and grip strength among healthy young Indian adults. Evaluation of hand function is a crucial component to assess prognosis in hand pathologies. Examinations of dexterity provide unique way of evaluating neuro-motor function of entire hand. There is scarcity of literature on reference values for fine hand dexterity among healthy young adults. To explore normative values for fine hand dexterity and its relation with pinch and grip strength. The 9-Hole Pegboard Test was administered for evaluation of fine hand dexterity among healthy young adults (n= 256) of age group 18 to 35 with the mean age of 20.53 (±2.02). The task was demonstrated and both hands were assessed. Grip and pinch strengths were measured in both hands in a consistent manner. A dynamometer was used for grip strength and a pinch meter was used to measure key (lateral) and tripod pinch and tip to tip pinch strengths. Normative value for fine hand dexterity of dominant hand among males (n= 125) is 19 (± 2.18) and among females (n= 126) is 19.5 (± 2.59) and there was no significant correlation between fine hand dexterity with grip and pinch strength. Normative values generated in this study can be used for clinical reference in the evaluation of hand function to that of normal subjects of the same age and gender.

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