Grip Strength Assessment Research Articles

Longitudinal relationships between grip strength, subjective memory complaints and cognitive function among middle-aged and older adults in China.

Subjective memory complaints are considered an early sign of cognitive decline. Recent evidence shows that grip strength is an important predictor of cognitive function. However, few studies have compared whether one condition is uniquely associated with cognitive function when another condition is controlled for. To explore the longitudinal associations of cognitive function with subjective memory complaints and grip strength in middle-aged and older adults, with a particular focus on whether one condition is uniquely associated with cognitive function when another condition is considered. A total of 3,877 middle-aged and older adults (aged 45-92years) from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study reported on their demographic and health status and completed measures of grip strength and subjective memory complaints, as well as a series of cognitive tests, every two years between 2011 and 2015. Generalized estimating equation models were used to assess the relationships between grip strength, subjective memory complaints, and cognitive function. Grip strength was longitudinally associated with cognitive function (β = 0.021, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.011, 0.030, P < 0.001) independent of subjective memory complaints. In contrast, changes in the subjective memory complaints were not related to cognitive function over time (β = 0.107, 95% CI: - 0.025, 0.238, P = 0.112). Only at baseline subjective memory complaints were associated with poorer cognitive function (β = - 1.142, 95% CI: - 1.309, - 0.975, P < 0.001). Grip strength might be a more important clinical correlate of cognitive function decline over time than subjective memory complaints. Regular assessment and close monitoring of grip strength might help identify individuals who might be at high risk for cognitive impairment.

Perception of verticality in the post-COVID-19 condition correlates to infection severity.

SARS-CoV-2 infection affects multiple systems, including musculoskeletal, neurological, and respiratory systems. Changes associated with physical inactivity due to prolonged hospitalization can affect the functional capacity of individuals with long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) or post-COVID-19 condition and may cause changes in some postural control functions, such as verticality. This study aimed to evaluate the perception of verticality in individuals with long COVID. Cross-sectional study. This study included 60 participants with post-COVID-19 condition divided into 2 groups: hospitalized group (n = 24), those hospitalized owing to SARS-CoV-2 infection; and non-hospitalized group (n = 36), those infected with SARS-CoV-2 but not hospitalized. All participants were examined using a post-COVID-19 functional status (PCFS), sit-to-stand test, grip strength assessment, painful and tactile sensory assessments, visual acuity assessment, and vestibular assessment. Verticality perception was evaluated using the subjective visual vertical (SVV) and subjective haptic vertical (SHV) tests. In both tests, the absolute values (positive values only) and true values (positive and negative values) were considered. To verify potential confounders that could influence the verticality of the results, logistic regression models were used for categorical variables and multiple linear regressions were used for continuous variables. For analysis between groups, the independent samples test (Mann-Whitney U test) was used. There were no confounders between clinical variables and verticality in either group. There was a significant increase in absolute SVV (mean deviation [MD]: 2.83; P < .0001) and true SVV (MD: -4.18; P = .005) in the hospitalized group compared to the non-hospitalized group. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in the true SHV (MD: -3.6; P = .026) in the hospitalized group compared to that in the non-hospitalized group. Less accurate visual and haptic verticality perception task performance was observed in hospitalized patients with post-COVID-19 condition.

Predictive ability of the two-minute step test for functional fitness in hypertensive older individuals.

The 2-Minute Step Test (2MST) is a simple and inexpensive functional test that measures an individual's ability to perform continuous stepping up and down on a step platform for two minutes. This study evaluated the 2MST as a tool for assessing functional fitness in older individuals with hypertension and determined the correlation between the 2MST and physical fitness tests. A total of 91 older individuals with hypertension performed physical fitness tests, including the 2MST, 6-minute walk test (6MWT), five-times sit-to-stand test (FTSST), grip strength and leg strength assessments, and Timed Up and Go test (TUG) to collectively assess their physical fitness. A cutoff score of ≤60 steps in the 2MST had 87.50% sensitivity and 70.59% specificity in predicting functional exercise performance in older individuals with hypertension. Additionally, the number of steps in the 2MST was positively correlated with the distance covered in the 6MWT, isometric grip strength, and isometric leg strength and negatively correlated with the duration of the FTSST and TUG.<br/>. A cutoff score of ≤60 steps in the 2MST predicted functional exercise performance in older individuals with hypertension with 87.50% sensitivity and 70.59% specificity and was correlated with other physical fitness tests, suggesting that the 2MST is a useful tool for assessing functional exercise performance.

Hand Grip Strength Assessment Based on Sarcopenia Diagnostic Criteria Predicts Swallowing Function.

The purpose of this study is to clarify whether swallowing function can be inferred from grip strength. Based on the diagnostic criteria of sarcopenia, patients were divided into two groups according to grip strength, and it was analyzed whether there was a difference in the evaluation index for swallowing function between the two groups. Among the cases requesting evaluation of swallowing function from June 10, 2020 to October 28, 2020, 83 cases (mean age: 71.7years, 59 males and 24 females) who received assessment tests and swallowing endoscopy were included. According to the diagnostic criteria for grip strength in the Asian working group in Sarcopenia, less than 28 kgf and 18 kgf were defined as the weak group for men and women, respectively. Hyodo scores, repeated salivary swallowing tests (RSST), maximum vocalization time (MPT), and dysphagia severity classification (DSS) were compared between the two groups. Of the 83 patients, 29 and 54 were in the normal group and weak group, respectively. In all indicators, the normal group showed significantly better results than the weak group: Hyodo score (2.4 vs. 4.0, p < 0.01), RSST (4.1 times vs. 2.4 times, p < 0.01), MPT (12.1s vs. 5.9s, p < 0.001), DSS (4.5 vs. 5.9, p < 0.001), respectively. In multiple regression analysis with DSS as the dependent variable, grip strength was a significant independent variable of DSS even after adjusting for age, gender, and body mass index. Grip strength assessment based on sarcopenia criteria can be a useful tool for estimating swallowing function.

Shenqisherong pill ameliorates neuronal apoptosis by inhibiting the JNK/caspase-3 signaling pathway in a rat model of cervical cord compression

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThe Shenqisherong (SQSR) pill is an empirical prescription of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), which originated from the National Chinese Medical Science Master, Shi Qi. It has been widely used in the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) and promote the recovery of spinal cord function, but underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. Aim of the studyThe objective of this study was to confirm the neuroprotective effects of the SQSR pill. Materials and methodsA rat model of chronic compression at double-level cervical cord was used in vivo. The protective role of SQSR pill on CSM rats was measured by Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor scale, inclined plane test, forelimb grip strength assessment, hindlimb pain threshold assessment, and gait analysis. The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were examined by Dihydroethidium (DHE) staining and 2′,7′-Dichlorofluorescein (DCF) assay, and apoptosis was detected by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. The expression of apoptosis proteins was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot. ResultsSQSR pill could facilitate locomotor function recovery in rats with chronic cervical cord compression, reduce local ROS in the spinal cord and downregulate the c-Jun-N-terminal kinase (JNK)/caspase-3 signaling pathway. In addition, the SQSR pill could protect primary rat cortical neurons from glutamate-treated toxicity in vitro by reducing the ROS and downregulating the phosphorylation of JNK and its downstream factors related to neuronal apoptosis meditated by the caspase cascade. Then, the neuroprotective effect was counteracted by a JNK activator. ConclusionsTogether, SQSR pill could ameliorate neuronal apoptosis by restraining ROS accumulation and inhibiting the JNK/caspase-3 signaling pathway, indicating that SQSR pill could be a candidate drug for CSM.

A clinical approach to a child with mirror hand malformation: 8-year follow-up results

Mirror hand (ulnar dimelia) is a very rare congenital anomaly of the upper extremity. This report presents the results of a therapy programme given to a patient with mirror hand. Pollicisation, opponensplasty, triceps lengthening and elbow arthrolysis were performed when the child was 2, 3, 4 and 7 years old respectively. Hand rehabilitation was planned in early (4–8 weeks), mid (9–12 weeks), and late (12 weeks) postoperative periods. The main purposes of the rehabilitation were to help the child recognise their hands and to use them functionally, ensure cortical reorganisation, improve independence and participate in activities of daily living. Range of motion, muscle and grip strength, sensation and hand function assessment results from an 8-year follow-up are presented. After 8 years of follow-up, the child was able to use his hand functionally, his grip strength was 1 kg, and his sensation was typical. Although he was independent in performing activities of daily living, because he did not have sufficient elbow flexion, he used excessive wrist flexion in some activities. The treatment was satisfactory for the child and the family. The child displayed typical motor development similar to his peers. Planning the treatment and therapy in coordination with hand surgeons is essential for optimal hand function.

Relationship between sacral‐abdominal wall distance and grip strength in postmenopausal osteoporotic patients

AbstractBackgroundAn increase in waist circumference (WC) is a factor in lifestyle‐related diseases. The rectus abdominis muscle is a skeletal muscle that attaches to the pelvis from the xiphoid process and is thought to be affected by kyphosis deformity and posterior pelvic tilt. The purpose of this study is to examine differences between sacral‐abdominal wall distance (SAD) and WC and to determine whether they are associated with fall risk, frailty, markers of sarcopenia (grip strength and lean body mass), and spinal alignment. A secondary objective is to examine these differences by stratification by grip strength.MethodsThis retrospective study included 239 women aged 65 years or older (mean age 76.5 ± 6.7 years) attending an outpatient osteoporosis clinic. Bone mineral density and skeletal body composition (muscle mass index and trunk lean mass) were measured using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. SAD, pelvic tilt, and sagittal longitudinal axis were measured from simple X‐ray images of the spine sides. WC, grip strength, frailty, and fall risk score were investigated. Statistics were performed using Stat Flex, with two‐sided P &lt; 0.05 being significantly different.ResultsWC was correlated with SAD (R = 0.68, P &lt; 0.001). The SAD cut‐off value for a WC of 90 cm was 167 mm. The relationship between grip strength, SAD, and WC, weaker grip strength was associated with greater SAD; however, no significant difference was noted in WC. WC was not correlated with pelvic alignment but was correlated with body mass index (P &lt; 0.01). Meanwhile, SAD was correlated with body mass index, pelvic tilt, sagittal longitudinal axis (P &lt; 0.01), spinal alignment, and WC. Logistic regression analysis was performed with a grip strength of less than 18 kg as the objective variable. We found that the conditions for a grip strength of less than 18 kg were older age (P &lt; 0.001), increased SAD (P = 0.02), and decreased trunk lean body mass. There was a decrease in grip strength (P &lt; 0.05) and an increase in frailty (P &lt; 0.05) and falls (P &lt; 0.01) score in patients with SAD of 167 mm or greater.ConclusionsSAD and WC were found to be correlated; SAD was associated with body weight, posterior pelvic tilt, and anterior spinal tilt deformity, while WC was related to body weight. Increased SAD was found to be linked with decreased grip strength and increased risk of falls. This study was the first to examine a new measurement, SAD, for its utility in assessing grip strength, spinal alignment, frailty, and fall risk.

Grip strength data for individuals with severe anorexia nervosa

Objective: This retrospective study compiled grip strength data of patients with severe anorexia nervosa to assess associations among grip strength, anorexia nervosa severity, depression, and physiological comorbidities. Design: 475 patients with severe anorexia nervosa admitted to an inpatient hospital and completed a grip strength assessment at admission and discharge. Depression was diagnosed via clinical interview. Independent sample t-tests and Mann-Whitney U tests compared difference in grip strength and anthropometric measures between anorexia nervosa subtypes. Linear and logistic regressions assessed associations among grip strength, depression, and physiological measures. Results: The cohort was 91.8% female (M age: 31.8 ± 11.7 years). At admission, patients had an average body mass index of 13.8 ± 2.4 kg/m2 with 97.7% exhibiting impaired right-hand grip strength for their sex and age. Weaker right grip strength was associated with admission lower body mass index, worsening bone mineral density z-scores, and lower serum prealbumin (all p’s&lt;.05) for both sexes. Patients with binge-purge anorexia nervosa had significantly stronger right grip strength (M:19.0 ± 7.8 kg) compared to patients with restricting anorexia nervosa (M:16.9 ± 7.9 kg), p=0.003. Conclusion: Severe malnutrition from anorexia nervosa was associated with profound deficits in grip strength, medical comorbidities and disease severity, but was not associated with depression.

What really matters mobility of middle-aged and older adults: low muscle mass or obesity?

Study objective: This study explored which body size–adjusted skeletal muscle indices (SMI) has a better correlation with mobility and cardiometabolic health. Additionally, the roles of low muscle mass and obesity in the mobility and cardiometabolic health of individuals were identified. We hypothesized that body mass index (BMI)-or body weight (Wt)-adjusted SMI had a better correlation with mobility in middle-aged and older adults with obesity than did body height (Ht)-adjusted SMI. Methods: 427 community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults (age: 66.0±9.0 years) underwent assessments of body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and waist circumference [WC]), grip strength, and mobility (timed up-and-go test and chair stand test). WC was used as a surrogate for obesity. Chi-square test and one-way analysis of variance were used to compare grip strength, mobility, and cardiometabolic health among individuals with normal body composition (N), only low muscle mass (S), only obesity (O), and low muscle mass plus obesity (SO). Pearson’s correlation coefficient was used to examine the correlation between muscle strength/mobility and different body size–adjusted SMI. Regression models were used to examine the factors independently associated with muscle strength, mobility, and cardiometabolic health. The significance level was set at α&lt;0.05. Results: The O group, but not the S group, had poorer mobility than the N group, regardless of the SMI used to define low muscle mass. The O and SO groups had a higher prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases. The relationship between muscle mass and mobility existed in individuals with obesity, but not in individuals without obesity. After adjusting for age, sex, and WC, ASM/BMI was the only SMI that was correlated with grip strength. Similarly, only ASM/BMI was positively correlated with performance on the timed up-and-go test in the population with obesity (p&lt;0.05). When age and sex were controlled, WC, but not SMI (regardless of adjusting for Ht, Wt, or BMI), was associated with mobility and cardiometabolic health. Conclusion: BMI-adjusted SMI had a better correlation with mobility in middle-aged and older adults with obesity than did Ht- and Wt-adjusted SMI. Obesity plays a more independent role in mobility and cardiometabolic health than low muscle mass in middle-aged and older adults. This study was supported by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Taiwan This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2023 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

The Effects of Bioimpedance Analysis Results and Upper Extremity Anthropometric Measurements on Grip Strength in Young Adults

Aim: Among the hand functions, grasping is an important function for the continuity of daily living activities. The assessment of grip strength is crucial for identifying athletic prowess, neuromuscular illnesses, assessing potential side effects following hand surgery, and treatment plans. It was aimed to examine whether bioimpedance analysis (BIA) and upper extremity anthropometric measurements are effected grip strength in young adults. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on 110 young adults, 55 males and 55 females, aged 18-25 years. Individuals with a history of trauma, musculoskeletal problems, and cardiac, respiratory, metabolic, or systemic diseases were not included in the study. Non-flexible tape measure, Harpenden anthropometric set, digital caliper, hand dynamometer, and skinfold caliper were used for anthropometric measurements. Body fat percentage and lean body mass, muscle mass, basal metabolic rate, and total body fluid parameters were investigated by bioelectrical impedance measurement. Three measurements were taken to reduce the error rate, and the average of these measurements was considered. Results: Excluding arm circumference, forearm length, and wrist circumference from anthropometric measurements, and mineral from BIA parameters; anthropometric measurements and BIA results were found to be statistically significantly correlated with grip strength. Conclusion: Upper extremity anthropometric measurements and BIA were associated with grip strength and varied according to gender. Significant correlations were found between grip strength with most of the anthropometric parameters and BIA.

Clinical outcomes in patients with scaphoid non-union treated with the vascularized medial femoral condyle technique a case series

IntroductionNon-union is a prevalent complication of scaphoid fractures. Late diagnosis is common and has a clinical impact due to functional limitations for the patient. Multiple treatments have been proposed to manage this complication, ranging from conservative (i.e., orthopedic) to surgical treatment. The vascularized medial femoral condyle technique has shown satisfactory clinical and paraclinical results, mainly in presence of avascular necrosis of the proximal pole but data regarding functional outcomes and patient satisfaction is scarce.This case series aims to describe the clinical and patient-reported outcomes in a consecutive series of patients with non-union of the proximal third of the scaphoid treated with vascularized medial femoral condyle technique. MethodsCase series reporting results for a consecutive – initial cohort of patients who presented with a non united fracture of the proximal pole of the scaphoid, avascular necrosis of the proximal pole was documented by CT od MRI imaging preoperatively in all patients. Measurement instruments include the q-DASH and PRWE questionnaires, radiographic images, goniometry, and assessment of grip strength. ResultsTwelve consecutive patients are included and they represent the initial cases for all surgeons involved; bone union was obtained in 10 patients (83%) after a mean follow-up time of 31 months (6–72), successful improvement in the range of motion and grip strength was documented. A high rate of satisfaction expressed by the patient was obtained, with an average score in Q-DASH of 17.3 and 20.1 in PRWE. ConclusionsThe vascularized medial condyle technique in cases of nonunion of scaphoid fracture is a reproducible treatment in clinical terms, both in imaging and functional terms, and in patient satisfaction. The learning curve is flat for a dedicated multi surgeon team.

Review article: Putting some muscle into sarcopenia-the pathogenesis, assessment and clinical impact of muscle loss in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Sarcopenia, a loss of skeletal muscle mass or function, affects up to 50% of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and is associated with poor clinical outcomes including increased hospitalizations, need for surgery and post-operative complications. Despite the high prevalence and clinical significance of sarcopenia in patients with IBD, few patients undergo routine muscle evaluation. The goal of this study was to review the mechanisms of sarcopenia in patients with IBD and understand novel modalities to assess and treat impaired muscle mass or function. Pubmed and Cochrane databases were searched including articles published up to February 2023 utilizing the following keywords: "inflammatory bowel disease", "IBD", "Crohn's disease", "ulcerative colitis", "sarcopenia", "myosteatosis", "muscle health", and "frailty". The pathogenesis of sarcopenia in IBD is not well defined, however, there is evidence supporting the role of malabsorption, reduced protein intake, chronic inflammation, dysbiosis, decreased physical activity, medication effects and hormone signaling from visceral adiposity. Traditional sarcopenia assessment techniques include direct measurements on cross sectional imaging. However, given the time, cost and radiation exposure associated with cross sectional imaging, new bedside tools are now available to estimate muscle mass, including assessment of grip strength, mid upper arm circumference and body composition utilizing bioelectrical impedance analysis. In addition, novel biomarkers for assessing muscle mass and techniques utilizing point of care ultrasound have been proposed to make sarcopenia evaluation more streamlined in the IBD clinic. Sarcopenia is associated with poor clinical outcomes independent of IBD activity and therefore muscle health should be assessed in all IBD patients at routine intervals. Future studies to better our understanding of the pathophysiology as well as most effective management of sarcopenia in IBD will help guide clinical care and reduce disease related complications.

MP71-06 MANUAL DEXTERITY PREDICTORS OF ARTIFICIAL URETHRAL SPHINCTER SUCCESS

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP71-06 MANUAL DEXTERITY PREDICTORS OF ARTIFICIAL URETHRAL SPHINCTER SUCCESS Kendrick Campbell, Joel Vetter, Shellee Ogawa, Baas Wesley, Aleksandra Klim, Alethea Paradis, Deborah Ksiazek, Diana Wolff, Henry Lai, and Gregory Murphy Kendrick CampbellKendrick Campbell More articles by this author , Joel VetterJoel Vetter More articles by this author , Shellee OgawaShellee Ogawa More articles by this author , Baas WesleyBaas Wesley More articles by this author , Aleksandra KlimAleksandra Klim More articles by this author , Alethea ParadisAlethea Paradis More articles by this author , Deborah KsiazekDeborah Ksiazek More articles by this author , Diana WolffDiana Wolff More articles by this author , Henry LaiHenry Lai More articles by this author , and Gregory MurphyGregory Murphy More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003339.06AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Artificial urethral sphincters (AUS) remain the gold standard for treatment of stress urinary incontinence in men. Dexterity diminishes with age and some men can have difficulty operating the device. There is scarce information on effective preoperative screening for this issue. Here we investigate the ability of pinch and grip strength, peg-transfer, and Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand Outcome questionnaire (DASH) to predict postoperative success. We hypothesize that strength and dexterity as measured by these tests will correlate with patient satisfaction. METHODS: A timed 9-hole peg test, pinch and grip strength assessment, and DASH questionnaire were administered during the pre-operative visit before AUS placement. In addition to standard pre-operative workup, incontinence questionnaire (ICIQ-SF) and physician handshake were recorded. Activation occurred 6 weeks after surgery along with assessment of adequacy of pump placement. 3 months from surgery a repeat ICIQ-SF and a survey measuring satisfaction, difficulty of use, and confidence were given. Correlation between pre-operative assessment variables and the post-operative questionnaire was assessed. RESULTS: 39 patients were included. Average age and BMI were 68.8 years and 28.8 kg/m2 respectively. 92.3% had prior prostatectomy, and 46.2% had prior pelvic radiation. Postoperatively 59.0% of patients were very satisfied; 64.1% of patients reported no difficulty of use; 53.8% felt confidence within one day; and 66.7% had much better bladder control. Average pad improvement count was 5.3. Pinch test was associated with satisfaction (p=0.011) while peg test was associated with confidence (p=0.049). Handshake and DASH were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: Pinch and 9-hole peg transfer test could be useful adjuncts during AUS evaluation for patients whose manual functional status is unclear. Additionally, these tests are cheap and easy to perform in clinic.2 Source of Funding: Midwest Stone Institute © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e1015 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Kendrick Campbell More articles by this author Joel Vetter More articles by this author Shellee Ogawa More articles by this author Baas Wesley More articles by this author Aleksandra Klim More articles by this author Alethea Paradis More articles by this author Deborah Ksiazek More articles by this author Diana Wolff More articles by this author Henry Lai More articles by this author Gregory Murphy More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Reliability and validity of the K-force grip dynamometer in healthy subjects: do we need to assess it three times?

Digital dynamometers to assess grip strength are becoming more common in research and clinical settings. The aim of the study was to assess validity and reliability of the K-force dynamometer compared to the Jamar dynamometer. We also aimed to assess differences over the course of three measurements. Twenty-seven healthy participants were included. Three trials with the K-force and Jamar dynamometers were completed. Testing order was randomised. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) with absolute agreement assessed reliability and validity. Standard error of the measurement (SEM) and minimal detectable change (MDC95) were calculated. Concurrent validity was assessed using Pearson's correlations and ICCs. Differences between the three repetitions were assessed using one-way repeated measures ANOVAs. Both the K-force and the Jamar presented excellent intra-rater reliability with ICCs ranging from 0.96 to 0.97. The SEM ranged from 1.7 to 2kg and the MDC from 4.7 to 5.7kg for both dynamometers. The concurrent validity of the K-force was high (r ≥ 0.89). However, the K-force underestimated the grip strength by 4.5-8.5kg. There was no change in grip strength with either dynamometer over the course of three trials. The K-force is reliable, but it underestimates grip strength by 4.5-8.5kg compared to the Jamar dynamometer. K-force can be used to monitor progress over time but cannot be used to compare results against normative data. The use of a single measurement when assessing grip strength is sufficient when assessing healthy subjects.

Can Measurement of Ultrasonic Echo Intensity Predict Physical Frailty in Older Adults?

Echo intensity (EI) of the tongue in ultrasonography is an easy and quantitative assessment of tongue function. Elucidating the relationship between EI and frailty, is expected to aid in the early detection of frailty and oral hypofunction in older adults. We assessed tongue function and frailty in older outpatients visiting a hospital. The subjects were 101 individuals aged 65 or older (35 men and 66 women, mean age 76.4 ± 7.0 years). Tongue pressure and EI were measured as assessments of tongue function and grip strength, and Kihon Checklist (KCL) scores were measured as assessments of frailty. In women, a significant correlation was not found between the mean EI and grip strength, whereas a significant correlation was noted between each score of the KCL and the mean EI; the scores increased as the mean EI increased. A significant positive correlation was found between tongue pressure and grip strength, but no significant correlation was observed between tongue pressure and the KCL scores. In men, no significant correlation was found between tongue assessments and frailty, except for a significant positive correlation between tongue pressure and grip strength. The results of this study suggest that EI of the tongue is positively associated with physical frailty in women and may be useful for early detection of physical frailty status.

Ultrasound evaluation of surgically repaired hand tendons during rehabilitation and its relation to clinical and functional assessment.

This study aimed to evaluate the contribution of musculoskeletal ultrasound to the follow-up of surgically repaired hand tendons during rehabilitation programs and correlate ultrasound findings with the clinical outcome. In the prospective observational study, 40 patients (29 males, 11 females; mean age: 27.4±10.7 years; range, 15 to 55 years) who presented with postoperative hand tendon repair between January 2019 and March 2020 were randomized into two groups: Group 1 included 15 subjects with 16 repaired flexor tendons, whereas Group 2 consisted of 25 subjects with repaired extensor tendons. Afterward, the assessment was performed at the four, eight, and 12 weeks of rehabilitation utilizing the total active motion of injured fingers, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), grip strength, ultrasound, and hand assessment tool (HAT). The study's findings revealed a substantial improvement in pain based on the evaluation of grip strength, total active motion, VAS, and the affected hand's HAT score in both groups (p<0.001). In both groups, ultrasonographic evaluation of healing tendons revealed considerable enhancement in margination, defect size, thickness, echogenicity, and vascularity. A positive correlation was detected between VAS and healing tendon margination as well as the HAT score and handgrip margination in Group 1. High-frequency ultrasound is an easily accessible modality in the follow-up and evaluation of tendon healing after surgical repair and during a rehabilitation program.

Comparison of different tools for the evaluation of malnutrition and sarcopenia in patients with liver cirrhosis

Introduction: malnutrition and sarcopenia are frequent in the population with liver cirrhosis and have a negative impact on the performance status and life expectancy of these patients. There are multiple assessment tools for malnutrition and sarcopenia in cirrhosis. Objective: to assess malnutrition and sarcopenia in liver cirrhosis and to compare the accuracy of diagnostic tools in this population. Method: a cross-sectional analytical study was conducted with convenience sampling by using continuous inclusion of patients with liver cirrhosis in a tertiary care center during December 2018 to May 2019. The nutritional assessment was carried out with arm anthropometry, body mass index (BMI), and the algorithm of the Royal Free Hospital Subjective Global Assessment (RFH-SGA). For the evaluation of sarcopenia, the hand grip strength test with a hand dynamometer was applied. The results were reported in measures of central tendency expressed in frequency and percentage. Results: a total of 103 patients were included with a predominance of the male gender (79.6 %) and a mean age of 51 years (± 10). The etiology of liver cirrhosis corresponded more frequently to alcohol consumption (68 %) and most of the patients were Child-Pugh C (57.3 %) with a mean MELD of 21.9 (± 8.9). A mean BMI with dry weight of 25.2 kg/m2 was reported, and with respect to the WHO classification by BMI, 7.8 % were underweight and 59.2 % were malnourished by RFH-SGA. Sarcopenia was present in 88.3 % using the hand grip strength test, for which a mean of 18.99 kg was found. A Kendall's Tau-b rank correlation coefficient was performed between BMI and RFH-SGA, which showed no statistically significant association, as well as between mean arm muscle circumference percentiles and hand grip strength. Conclusions: global assessment in liver cirrhosis should include screening for malnutrition and sarcopenia, for which validated, accessible and safe application tools should be used, such as anthropometric assessment, RFH-SGA, and hand grip strength.

Relationship of Upper Limb Strength and Flexibility among Collegiate Male Tennis Players: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Tennis is popular sports for people of all ages group. Although there are number of studies examining young tennis players and there is still inconsistent finding regarding the physical characteristic of young tennis player.Aim: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of upper limb strength and flexibility in collegiate male tennis players.Method: This study will examine associations between upper limb strength and flexibility among collegiate male tennis player. In upper limb strength, to assess arm strength, push up test was used and to assess grip strength, hand held dynamometer was used. for flexibility, sit and reach test was used. Result: Arm Strength and flexibility show a moderately positive correlated (Pearson Correlation Coefficient r =0.649), similarly when flexibility was correlate with grip strength a highly positive correlation was reported (r = 0.701).Conclusion: The present study consisting of 30 players found that there is a Moderately positive correlation betweenArmstrength andFlexibility, and Highly positive correlation of Grip strength with Flexibility. Thus, this study concludes that there is positive correlation between upper limb strength and flexibility.

EXPLORING THE PHYSICAL FUNCTION PROFILES OF OLDER ADULTS WITH SERIOUS MENTAL HEALTH CONDITIONS

Abstract Older adults with serious mental health conditions experience high rates of comorbid chronic medical diseases, which affect the physical function and long-term aging trajectory of this population. Existing physical function research in this population has focused almost exclusively on endurance with little to no attention paid to other important domains such as balance, mobility, and strength, which are critical to promoting independence and improved quality of life. The primary aim of this study was to explore the multiple dimensions of function that are important to maintaining independence and health in older adults with serious mental health conditions. This study examined publicly available data from the 2014 and 2016 waves of the Health and Retirement Study, a national longitudinal panel study of older adults. Analyses were limited to participants that self-reported lifetime diagnoses of serious mental health conditions (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder). The sample comprised 428 older adults over age 50 (M=67.1, SD=10.1; 68% female) who completed standardized assessments of grip strength, single-leg standing balance, and usual walking speed. Scores on these three measures were compared to established age- and/or gender-based norms for each assessment to characterize performance. Overall, 65% of the sample demonstrated deficits in strength and 31% of the sample performed below established norms for both balance and walking speed. These findings highlight that physical function in this population is compromised across multiple domains and suggest a need for multicomponent interventions.

Psychosocial and Physical Functioning Predictors of Everyday Functioning in The Kaiser Healthy Aging and Diverse Life Experience (KHANDLE) Study

AbstractBackgroundWhile Alzheimer’s disease and associated cognitive impairments are major contributors to functional decline, other variables including physical functioning and psychosocial variables may also impact functional status. Our study examined how psychosocial factors (depression, loneliness, and emotional support) and physical functioning (gait speed and grip strength) may independently contribute to instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) functioning among a diverse ethnoracial cohort.MethodThe Kaiser Healthy Aging and Diverse Life Experience (KHANDLE) study is a diverse cohort of long‐term members of an integrated healthcare delivery system ages ≥65, without a dementia diagnosis at time of recruitment. At enrollment, participants completed self‐report IADL measure, neuropsychological testing, physical functioning assessment (grip strength and walk speed), and self‐report psychosocial inventories assessing depression, loneliness, and perceived emotional support through the NIH Toolbox. Analytic sample included 1,243 participants (395 Caucasian (32%), 331 African American (27%), 292 Asian (23%), and 225 Latino (18%)). Cumulative logit models adjusting for cognition and demographics were used to determine significant predictors of IADL functioning, both in separate and combined models. Possible effect modification by race/ethnicity were assessed through interaction terms.ResultAverage baseline age was 75.5 and 59% were female. In separate models, gait speed, grip strength, loneliness, and emotional support were significant predictors of IADL functioning after controlling for cognition and demographics. Depression was not a significant predictor. When adding all significant variables into a single model as independent predictors, slower gait and greater loneliness were associated with more IADL difficulty, while stronger grip strength and more emotional support was associated with less IADL difficulty. Emotional support was no longer a significant predictor of IADL functioning. Interaction terms between independent variables and race were not significant.ConclusionVery few studies have simultaneously examined psychosocial factors and physical functioning as predictors of everyday functioning, particularly among a diverse ethnoracial sample. Our results indicate that independent of cognition, slower gait and greater loneliness were independently associated with worse IADL functioning, while stronger grip strength was associated with better IADL functioning. Such findings have important implications for identifying older adults at risk for disability and for treatments that could prevent excess disability.