Growth diagrams for individual finger strength in children measured with the RIHM.
BACKGROUND
Although grip and pinch strength provide a more global measure of a large number of digits and muscles, measuring strength of individual fingers or the thumb can provide additional and more detailed information regarding hand strength.


OBJECTIVE
We developed growth diagrams for individual finger strength in children.


METHODS
We measured thumb palmar abduction, thumb opposition, and thumb flexion in the metacarpophalangeal joint, and abduction of the index and little fingers in 101 children (4-12 years old) using a myometer. We recorded hand dominance, gender, height, and weight. All measurements were performed in a randomized order by the same researcher. We developed statistical models for drawing growth diagrams using estimated percentiles for each strength measurement. Separate models for dominant and nondominant hands of boys and girls were developed, in addition to a combined model.


RESULTS
Because there was no difference in strength between boys and girls and between dominant and nondominant hands, both hands and genders were combined in one growth diagram for each measurement. The normative data were presented in a table format and in growth diagrams for each myometer measurement.


CONCLUSIONS
These diagrams can be used for pediatric patients such as patients with congenital malformations or neuromuscular disorders who receive interventions or therapy aimed at function of the hand, fingers, or thumb. The growth diagrams facilitate distinguishing between the effects of growth and intervention on strength development.
Molenaar
H M
HM
Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Room Ee 1591, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. H.Molenaar@erasmusmc.nl
Selles
Ruud W
RW
Willemsen
Sten P
SP
Hovius
Steven E R
SE
Stam
Henk J
HJ
D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D005385:Fingers / Q000502:physiology*; D007839:Functional Laterality / Q000502:physiology; D018737:Hand Strength / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009119:Muscle Contraction / Q000502:physiology; D053581:Muscle Strength Dynamometer; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology; D012016:Reference Values