Journal of Osteoporosis and Physical Activity
Open Access

Abstract

Optimal Handle Grip Span for Maximum Hand Grip Strength and Accurate Grip Control Strength Exertion according to Individual Hand Size

Kun-Hsi Liao

Background: Hand grip strength (HGS) and grip control strength (GCS) are two predictors of upper-extremity function to undertake activities of daily living. Numerous studies have indicated that hand size and handle diameter independently affect HGS. However, none has explored the effects of matching hand size to optimal grip span on ergonomic outcomes. The aim of this article was to investigate the relationships among grip strength, hand size, and grip span.

Methods: Seventy two healthy adults (age range 18-30 year) were divided into three hand size groups (small 23, medium 25, and large 24) and evaluated their HGS and GCS data three times on both hands. Hand size was measured from the base of hand to the tip of middle finger and three different grip spans (47.6, 60.3, and 73.0 mm) were executed.

Results: The results indicated that individual hand size was positively correlated with maximum HGS in the both hands (p<0.01) but did not significantly affect GCS (p>0.05). Analysis of variance demonstrated a clearly significant difference in HGS for men, not for women, in the three hand size groups. For participants in the three different hand size groups, a grip span of 47.6 mm would exert the maximum HGS.

Conclusion: Hand grip strength was influenced by hand size and grip span in both hands. There is an optimal grip span to which the dynamometer should be adjusted when measuring hand grip strength in people. These findings may guide occupational therapy clinicians and staff members designing ergonomic interventions.