The impact of simulated distal interphalangeal joint fusion on grip strength.

Abstract

This study assessed the impact of distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint fusion on grip strength and how this may be related to a profundus quadriga. Nineteen adults (12 men and 7 women) with an average age of 32.6 years (range: 24-61 years) underwent a series of grip strength measurements with simulation of DIP arthrodesis to the index, long, and index and long (index-long) fingers. The nondominant hand served as a control for the testing. All participants were tested in the same manner: baseline dominant and nondominant hands without DIP block followed by blocking of DIP flexion on the dominant hand only for index, index-long, and long finger alone. Nondominant hands also were tested each time, but without blocking to serve as a control for normal changes in grip strength with repeated testing. Grip strength values were compared to baseline for each trial using the Student's t test. Significant decreases in grip strength were seen for all DIP blocking compared with baseline, but no significant differences were noted in the equivalent trial in the nondominant, nonblocked hand. These findings may have clinical relevance when performing DIP arthrodesis.