Grip strength, functional range and anthropometric dimensions, and indication on fulfilling occupations in the home and workplace : a cross-sectional study

Introduction: Little is known about the relationship between the types of grip strength, functional range, anthropometric measures, and function in the home and workplace. The study aimed to determine their relationships and explore their contributions to performing usual work duties and overall function in participants with and without hand and wrist injury. Method: Forty-four participants were measured on Maximal Voluntary Isometric Grip Strength, Rapid Exchange Grip Contractions and Isometric Endurance, Forearm Length and Volumetry, and the Dart Thrower’s Motion (DTM) measure. They completed the Patient Rated Wrist and Hand Evaluation and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Work Module. Results: The grip measures significantly correlated with Volumetry (r = 0.62–0.74) in participants with and without hand and wrist injury. The Isometric Endurance and DTM measure of the non-injured hand were found to be contributing factors for participants with hand and wrist injury when returning to usual work duties and overall function. Conclusion: The non-injured hand function plays a role in the overall function for participants with hand and wrist injuries. Isometric Endurance and DTM measure could assist clinicians in determining suitable rehabilitation targets, resulting in a better function required for occupations in the home or workplace.