Handgrip strength testing: A review of the literature
- Abstract:
- Testing grip strength is a popular assessment used by occupational therapists in a range of clinical settings. It is fast, easy to perform, reliable and produces a result which is simple to record. Results of grip strength testing have been used to determine a baseline measure of performance against which change can be compared, as well as comparison of results to normative data. This article reviews the literature associated with the measurement of grip strength. It addresses the purposes of grip strength measurement; the instruments used and their reliability and accuracy; the testing position and protocol suggested for use and aspects of these which may influence results; the use of normative data and factors which influence grip strength, including age, gender and occupation; and various methods to determine level or sincerity of effort. Recommendations are made regarding these issues to enable clinicians to conduct grip strength assessments and interpret the results with confidence
- DOI:
- URL:
- Journal:
- Australian Occupational Therapy Journal
- issn:
- Publication year:
- 1999
- pages:
- 120-140
- Functional status:
- Physical functioning
- Age:
- Adults (18-65)
Children (0-18)
Seniors (65+) - Disease:
- Diseases of and symptoms related to the musculoskeletal system and connective tissue
- PRO / non-PRO:
- Non-patient Reported Outcome
- Type of measurement instrument:
- 4 - Performance-based tests
7 - Observations
9 - Laboratory tests - Instrument:
- Boots Grip Strength meter
Dynamometry (versions: Computerised Dynamometry; Analog Dynamometers)
Electronic Dynamometer (versions: Portable fixed; Kratos model)
Five Handle Position grip strength (Five-rung test)
HHD - Hand-Held Dynamometer (Hand-held dynamometry with pulley force sensor)
ISTU - Isometric Strength Testing Unit (ISTU) hand grip device
LIDO WorkSET
Martin vigorimeter
MIE digital pinch/grip analyser
REG - Rapid Exchange Grip test
RSG - Rapid Simultaneous Grip
Sphygmomanometer (handheld dynamometer) (versions: modified)