A Study of Handgrip Strength in the South Indian Male Population

Abstract

Background: The anatomical system of the hand is complex and includes both static and moving parts. For the most part of our lives, we take our grip strength for granted. It is necessary to preserve the integrity of the handgrip and provides information regarding general muscle strength, endurance, and power. Handgrip strength can also serve as a straightforward, cost-effective, and practical tool in occupational health research; it can be used to assess nutritional status, track the loss of muscle strength, and develop prevention or intervention measures. The present study aimed to compare maximal hand grip strength in men of different age groups. Materials and methods: 150 male subjects in total, whose ages ranged from 20 to 60, participated in the study. Subjects in the age group of 40–60 years were taken as Group I, and those in the age group of 20–39 years were taken as Group II. The strength of the dominant hand's grip was compared between the two groups in the current study. The grip strength of the dominant hand was measured three times at an interval of 1 minute, and the mean value recorded was considered to be the maximum hand grip strength. The data was analyzed by paired t tests using SPSS version 22. Results: The handgrip strength in males aged 20–39 years was statistically significant (p < 0.001) as compared to the other group. Conclusion: Handgrip strength is higher in younger males when compared to men over 40, probably due to increased muscle mass. Keywords: hand grip strength, hand dynamometer, male