Handgrip strength and its correlation with anthropometric determinants and hand dimensions in children aged 6-12 years: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Handgrip strength is considered an important interpreter of general health, and hand functions in children. It is mainly influenced by anthropometric determinants and hand dimensions. To assess the handgrip strength and their association with anthropometric determinants, hand circumference, hand span, and hand length among school children in both the dominant and non-dominant hand. Anthropometric measurements, hand circumference, hand span, hand length, and grip strength measurements were obtained from 133 school children of both genders aged 6-12 years. A Jamar hand-held dynamometer was used to measure handgrip strength and the hand dimensions with a tape measure in cm. Significant differences were found between the handgrip strength among boys and girls. The dominant hand was found to be sturdier than the non-dominant hand in both genders. We also found a significant correlation of anthropometric determinants and hand dimensions with handgrip strength. Age, BMI, hand circumference, hand span, and hand length had a strong correlation with grip strength (p < 0.01). The study revealed the reference values and concluded its correlations with hand dimensions among school children aged 6-12 years and this information can serve as a manual for interpretation of handgrip strength measurements in children.