Comparison of Hand Power and Muscle Activation during Power Grip and Pinch Grip

Abstract

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to understand the relationship between hand power and muscle activation during power grip and pinch grip. [Subjects] Fifty healthy adults were randomly arranged into two groups. [Methods] Hand power was measured using a hand dynamometer and pinch grip was measured with a pinch gauge. Muscle activation was measured using electromyography. [Results] The results were as follows: the power grip group and pinch grip group showed a significant difference in hand strength, but there was no significant difference in muscle activation. [Conclusion] In conclusion, the power grip showed greater hand strength than the pinch grip. However, no significant difference was found between the activation of the forearm and hand muscles. In other words, increased strength did not necessarily mean increased muscle activation. Therefore, the pinch grip is a more effective method of exercise.