An Analysis of Finger Pinch Strength in Children

Abstract

This study examined 3 types of pinch strength and handgrip strength among children between the ages of 5.3 and 7.9 years. Maximal strength of four pulp pinches, the chuck pinch and the lateral pinch were measured as well as maximal handgrip strength. Data analysis showed that the chuck and lateral pinched were the strongest while the pulp pinch with the little finger was the weakest. The pulp pincnes with the index and with the middle finger were stronger than that with the ring finger. Males were slightly stronger than females, the difference being only 13%. The right hand pinches were not significantly stronger than left hand pinches, the difference being only 5%. The major hand of subjects with dominant left hand was only 84% as strong as the major hand of subjects with dominant right hand. Pinch strength increased with age by 50% for a 2.6 year difference.