Testing Patients Grip Strength

By performing a grip strength test on their initial visit, and then regularly testing grip strength, we can determine if our program of care is working for this individual. There are also studies that show a correlation between grip strength and the function of other systems of the body. One study showed that when the endocrine system is not functioning properly, that grip strength will be reduced. Another showed a correlation between a decrease in grip strength in those dealing with diabetes. The current state of your health can also have an effect. Those who have recently experienced reduced quality of sleep, reduced quality of nutrition, or ingested larger amounts of alcohol scored lower in grip strength than normal. Grip strength also correlates with musculoskeletal injuries. Those dealing with rotator cuff injuries tend to have a lower grip strength on the injured side. Once again, testing and then retesting grip strength can show whether the therapy is appropriate and also show the patient that they are making progress.

So don’t be surprised if you walk into our office one day and we hand you a dynamometer and tell you to squeeze as hard as you can. We aren’t just concerned with how strong your hands are, we are using it to determine how well your body is operating in general. We can not only use it to evaluate the appropriateness of our care, but it will also allow you to see how well you are progressing and provide you with a specific goal to work toward.