Posture effects on grip strength.
OBJECTIVE
To examine whether grip strengths were different when measured in supine and sitting positions.


METHODS
Comparison, convenience sample.


METHODS
Community.


METHODS
Seventy-four healthy adult participants with no history of psychiatric or neurological dysfunction, or upper extremity orthopedic dysfunction after the age of 18.


METHODS
Participants performed grips with each hand while sitting and standing. Shoulder was adducted and extended, with the elbow flexed, and wrist and forearm in neutral.


METHODS
The mean of the three trials with each hand in each posture.


RESULTS
Men were stronger (49kg) than women (29kg; p < .001). Right hands were stronger (41kg) than left (39kg; p < .001). However, grip strengths while sitting were equivalent to those tested while supine (p > .59).


CONCLUSIONS
Using identical upper extremity positions, grip strength is equivalent when tested in the supine and sitting positions. Thus, when determining grip strength, grips measured while the subject is supine can be compared with norms collected while the subject is sitting, provided the upper extremity position is invariant.
Richards
L G
LG
Department of Occupational Therapy Education, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City 66160-7602, USA.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D018737:Hand Strength / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011187:Posture / Q000502:physiology*; D016683:Supine Position / Q000502:physiology