Grip Strength Measurements Research Articles

Positive Correlation Between Serum Limonene Levels and Muscle Health in a Representative Adult Population in the United States

Background/Objectives: Monoterpenes, a class of organic compounds with the molecular formula C10H16, have garnered significant attention for their potential medicinal benefits. Emerging evidence suggests they may positively influence skeletal muscle function. However, the impact of monoterpene exposure on muscle strength and mass in humans remains unclear. Methods: To explore this relationship, we analyzed data from 1202 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) who participated in the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), focusing on serum levels of three specific monoterpenes—α-pinene, β-pinene, and limonene—and their association with hand grip strength and lean muscle mass. Results: Our analysis revealed that, except for test 2 of hand 1, all grip strength measures showed a positive correlation with ln-limonene levels. The β coefficient for combined grip strength was 2.409 (S.E. = 0.891, p = 0.015). Positive associations were also found between serum limonene levels and lean muscle mass. The β coefficient for the Appendicular Skeletal Muscle Mass Index (ASMI) was 0.138 (S.E. = 0.041, p = 0.004). Furthermore, combined grip strength and ASMI significantly increased across limonene quintiles (p for trend = 0.005 and 0.006, respectively). However, none of the three monoterpene levels showed a significant association with clinically defined low muscle mass or low muscle strength. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a plausible association between exposure to limonene, hand grip strength, and lean muscle mass among adults in the United States. Further investigation is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and medical significance of this association.

Synovial Chondromatosis of the Hand and Wrist: A 35-Year Retrospective Case Review.

Background: Synovial chondromatosis is a condition that rarely occurs in the hand and wrist. Recurrence and malignant transformation are two potential complications of the disease. We set out to retrospectively review 35 years of practice within our sarcoma and tertiary hand unit and identify recurrence or malignant transformation. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of patients with synovial chondromatosis seen at our sarcoma and tertiary hand unit for the past 35 years. Incidence of recurrence or malignant transformation was noted. Where possible, patients were clinically and radiologically reviewed with range of motion, grip strength and patient evaluation measures obtained. Results: Of 12 patients presenting to the practice, seven patients were followed up and, of these, two demonstrated recurrences. The recurrence was diagnosed based on patient-reported symptoms, clinical examination and the requisition of further imaging. Of the five who could not be followed up, two demonstrated recurrence and one had malignant transformation with a low-grade chondrosarcoma on histology. Conclusions: While a rare disease, we demonstrated recurrence within our small case series. Fusion to obliterate the joint is an option in the management of recurrence. For the diagnostically challenging, genetic testing may be beneficial, though genetic rearrangements are not seen in all cases. All patients should be counselled on symptoms to watch for as a small proportion may experience recurrence and a small percentage may undergo malignant transformation. Level of Evidence: Level IV (Therapeutic).

Use of an electrical stimulation-induced fatigue protocol to evaluate the myotropic effects of metabolic-active agents in db/db mice

Introduction. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, and hyperglycaemia. T2DM is a proven risk factor for peripheral neuropathies as well as muscle contractility and function impairments. The biguanide metformine, experimental compound maloben, and preparations of various Panax species have a considerable potential for the treatment of T2DM and its skeletal muscle complications. As a test to evaluate muscle contractility and the effectiveness of its recovery, Gregory et al. have developed a protocol of electrical stimulation-induced fatigue (ESIF) which includes measuring grip strength after fatiguing the biceps brachii muscle with high-frequency electrical stimulation using implantable electrodes.Aim. In this work, we attempted to assess the applicability of a modification of said protocol in order to evaluate the myotropic effects of metformin, maloben, and extracts from suspension cell cultures of Panax ginseng C.A. Mey. (PGE), P. vietnamensis Ha & Grushv. (PVE), and P. japonicus (T. Nees) C.A. Mey. (PJE) in the leptin-resistant db/db mice, one of the most popular modern T2DM models.Materials and methods. The experiments were carried out in 60 young adult (2 months old) male C57Bl/Ks-db+/+m (db/db) mice weighing 45–50 g, randomized into 6 groups: 1) Control (n = 10; 0.9 % saline); 2) PGE (n = 10; 50 mg/kg); 3) PVE (n = 10; 50 mg/kg); 4) PJE (n = 10; 50 mg/kg); 5) maloben (n = 10; 60 mg/kg); 6) metformin (n = 10; 300 mg/kg). All drugs were administered via oral gavage using a feeding tube once daily for 2 months. Following the treatment period, forelimb and all-four limb grip strength (g) was assessed using the Grip Strength Meter (TSE Systems, Germany). Using stimulation electroneuromyography, we measured the compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitudes in the gastrocnemius induced by single-stimulus sciatic nerve stimulation, and assessed the dynamics of CMAP amplitudes during the first 5 min following the ESIF protocol completion.Results and discussion. Following treatment period completion, no significant changes were observed between the groups in grip strength or gastrocnemius CMAP amplitude under single-stimulus stimulation. Controlled ESIF of the muscle caused a 18.83–35.23 % (relative to baseline) decrease in CMAP amplitudes (p < 0.01 for all groups) that was significantly smaller in the PVE, PJE, and maloben groups vs. control (p < 0.05). The post-ESIF recovery period was associated with a 10.18–14.79 % increase in CMAP amplitudes that was significant in all groups except PGE (p < 0.01 for control, PVE, and PJE; p < 0.05 for maloben and metformin). No significant differences from control were observed in any of the treatment groups regarding net recovery.Сonclusion. The proposed protocol represents a functional test suitable to assess the recovery effectiveness of electrical activity of a skeletal muscle following its controlled fatigue. Using the described protocol, we were able to detect beneficial effects of PVE, PJE, and maloben (but not PGE or metformin) on the recovery of gastrocnemius contractility following tetanization in diabetic db/db mice. The ESIF test is sensitive to the myotropic effects of metabolic agents, minimally invasive, and acceptable under chronic experiment conditions.

Effects of Possible Sarcopenia on Physical Fitness, Gait, and Fear of Falling of Older Adults

Background: We aimed to determine the differences in physical fitness between older adults with and without indicators of possible sarcopenia and the associations between possible sarcopenia and fear of falling. Methods: Individuals aged >75 years living in Harbin City, China in 2023 were recruited through a local community center. The presence of possible sarcopenia was defined using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2 criteria via grip strength measurement, with cut-off points of >28 kg for men and >18 kg for women. Physical fitness, gait ability tests, and a fear of falling questionnaire were administered. An independent t-test was used to compare differences in physical fitness and gait between individuals with and without possible sarcopenia. Multivariate logistic regression was used to investigate the association between possible sarcopenia and fear of falling. Results: The possible sarcopenia group had lower extremity strength, flexibility, and aerobic endurance than the group without possible sarcopenia (P<0.001). Regarding dynamic balance, the time taken was longer in the possible sarcopenia group (P<0.001). There was also a difference in gait ability and fear of falling between the two groups (P<0.001). Compared to individuals without possible sarcopenia, those with possible sarcopenia had significantly increased odds ratios for fear of falling (odds ratio, 9.66; 95% confidence interval, 4.06–22.98). Conclusion: Possible sarcopenia based on the grip strength criterion was associated with decreased physical fitness and gait performance in Chinese community-dwelling older adults.

Quality of life and grip strength in patients with CKD

Context: Patients with chronic kidney disease are more likely to develop anemia and alteration of calcium and phosphorus concentrations, highlighting the marked muscle deterioration due to increased catabolism and the development of sarcopenia, which directly impacts the deterioration of muscle strength and therefore, functionality. This deterioration has been measured and quantified through the prehensile force; information that may be related to greater functional limitation and loss of independence, generating alterations in well-being and health-related quality of life. Objective: To determine the relationship between health-related quality of life and muscle strength in patients attending the renal unit at the Alma Mater Hospital of Antioquia.Methodology: This study was conducted in a clinical setting, in a Renal Unit in the city of Medellín. It is a quantitative, observational study, cross-sectional design with analytical intention. The population consisted of 47 patients, including 32 men and 15 women. A convenience sample was used, as the conditions for blinding the population during hemodialysis were not met. Data collection included sociodemographic information, quality of life assessment using the KDQOL-36 scale, and measurement of grip strength using the Biometrics system for dynamometry. Grip strength was assessed bilaterally in the standard position, with the elbow flexed, and with the arm flexed and the elbow extended. Results: From a total of 47 patients evaluated, it was found that the manual grip strength with a flexed arm is significantly associated with the physical health dimension of the KDQOL SF 36 renal scale. The manual grip test with an extended arm is also highly associated with the physical health dimension of the KDQOL SF 36 renal scale. Conclusions: The greater the manual grip, the higher the score in the physical health dimension of the KDQOL SF 36 scale, both in the standard position with the elbow flexed at 90° and with the elbow extended at 0°.

Assessing hand motor function in chronic immune-mediated neuropathies: a proof-of-concept study using a data glove

BackgroundChronic immune-mediated neuropathies are clinically heterogeneous and require regular, objective, and multidimensional monitoring to individualize treatment. However, established outcome measures are insufficient regarding measurement quality criteria (e.g., reliability, objectivity) or functional relevance. Wearables such as data gloves might be helpful, allowing repeated quantification of complex everyday life-relevant motor function of the hand.Methods25 patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy or multifocal motor neuropathy were followed-up at five time points during maintenance therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin. 14 of them showed clinically relevant hand motor impairment. We examined the patients’ hand function using a data glove which quantifies the active range of motion (ROM) of the hand based on three different movement patterns. In addition, clinical outcome parameters (grip strength measurement, MRC Sum Score, INCAT disability score), nerve conduction studies (NCS), and high-resolution ultrasound (HRUS) were performed, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) like the Rasch-built Overall Disability Scale (R-ODS) were assessed. We calculated correlation coefficients, performed Receiver Operating Characteristic analysis, as well as correlation analyses for the glove data and clinical outcome parameters. Longitudinal analyses were based on a Linear Mixed Model, and we assessed construct validity of the data glove by analyzing correlations between the glove measurements and well-established clinical parameters.ResultsWe found good to excellent test–retest reliability for the ROM in all glove movement patterns (Intraclass correlation coefficients = 0.83–0.94), underlining the ability to capture clinical stability. Moreover, the glove demonstrated adequate, sensitivity and specificity in detecting hand motor impairment (area under the curve (AUC): 0.714–0.780), and it performed better than NCS and HRUS (AUC: 0.552/0.701). The AUC values for the metrically scaled parameters include: Vigorimeter (AUC: 0.929) and R-ODS (AUC: 0.698). Additionally, the data glove proved to be a valid tool, as we demonstrated moderate to strong, significant correlations between the glove and established clinical parameters (especially Vigorimeter), as well as PROMs (especially R-ODS).ConclusionsThis data glove allowed for a non-invasive assessment of the hand motor function and yielded investigator-independent results that reliably reflected individual functional deficits with relevance to everyday life. Future studies should explore the ability to predict clinically meaningful responses to immunomodulatory treatment and to support and monitor rehabilitation progress, with potential applications in other neurological diseases as well.Trial registration at the German Clinical Trials Register, Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien (DRKS: 00027345), retrospectively registered on 23rd March 2022: https://drks.de/search/de/trial/DRKS00027345

Potential Effect of Defatted Mealworm Hydrolysate on Muscle Protein Synthesis in C2C12 Cells and Rats

(1) Background: the objective of this study was to examine the impact of defatted mealworm hydrolysate (DMH), formulated through protein hydrolysis, on muscle protein synthesis in C2C12 cells and rats; (2) Methods: C2C12 cells were treated with dexamethasone and DMH, and cell viability was quantified using the MTT assay. Twenty-four Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into three groups (control, DEX, and DEX + DMH) and treated for 8 weeks. The DEX and DEX + DMH groups were administered intraperitoneal injections of DEX at a concentration of 2.25 mg/kg over a 3-d period. The control and DEX groups were fed a control diet, whereas the DMH group had part of the protein composition of the control diet replaced with 3.5% of DMH. The impact of DMH on muscle protein synthesis was evaluated through the measurement of grip strength, gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior muscle weights, and the investigation of muscle protein synthesis and degradation factor mRNA expression utilising the real-time PCR method; (3) Results: in vitro experiments demonstrated that treatment with DMH at concentrations greater than 5 mg/mL markedly alleviated DEX-induced injury in C2C12 cells. In vivo experiments demonstrated that the mRNA expression levels of myogenin and myoblast determination proteins, which promote muscle protein synthesis, were significantly increased. Furthermore, rats fed DMH exhibited significantly enhanced grip strength and tibialis anterior weight; (4) Conclusions: these findings indicate that DMH may serve as a functional material capable of promoting muscle protein synthesis and that the utilization of proteolytic enzymes is advantageous for the effective utilization of mealworms.

Accuracy and Reliability of Grip Strength Measurements: A Comparative Device Analysis.

Background: Grip strength is widely used as a surrogate parameter for functional status. The current gold standard, the JAMAR® Hydraulic Dynamometer (JAMAR® Hydraulic), presents challenges for individuals with painful finger joints or low grip strength. Therefore, the objective of this observational study was to assess comparability across the JAMAR® Smart, the Martin Vigorimeter and the gold standard. Additionally, the intrasubject and intersession reliability of all three devices were examined, which are essential for quality control before generating normative data. Methods: Forty healthy participants (aged 37.0 ± 11.3 years) were included, and a subset of 20 participants was randomly selected for retesting. Grip strength testing involved five attempts per measurement device. Results: Intrasubject reliability was excellent (ICC3,1: 0.91-0.97), and a strong correlation (ICC3,1: 0.90-0.98) was found between the first attempt and the best of five as well as between the best of two or three attempts and the best of five, demonstrating robust reliability across multiple measures. Intersession reliability was good to excellent (ICC3,1: 0.85-0.97) across all three devices, which was confirmed by Bland-Altman analysis. The PCC (r) revealed moderate to very strong agreement with the current gold standard JAMAR® Hydraulic (r = 0.68-0.98), with increased differences between the Martin Vigorimeter and the JAMAR® Hydraulic measurements, particularly at low and high values. Conclusions: The proposed devices are suitable for test-retest analysis with 2-3 attempts. Despite high correlations between all three devices, the diverging levels of agreement between the Martin Vigorimeter and the established gold standard warrant caution against using these devices interchangeably.

Targeting the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is not beneficial in an animal model of chronic neuritis

The inhibition of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is a promising therapeutic pathway in certain autoimmune disorders to reduce the amount of circulating pathogenic IgG autoantibodies by interfering with their recycling system. FcRn antibodies are currently being tested in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic potential of an antibody targeting FcRn in the intracellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1)-deficient NOD mouse—a model representative for many aspects of human CIDP. After the onset of clinical signs of neuropathy, ICAM1-deficient NOD mice were assigned to treatment twice per week with anti-FcRn antibody, isotype control antibody (negative control) or intraperitoneal (administered) immunoglobulin (positive control). Disease severity was monitored using disease-specific assessments for ataxia and paresis such as grip strength measurements. Serum immunoglobulin levels and peripheral nerve immune cell infiltration were quantified. Treatment with anti-FcRn antibody did not ameliorate disease progression, as determined by clinical scores and grip strength analysis. Disease progression was reduced in the positive control animals receiving immunoglobulin. Consistent with the clinical results, the composition of infiltrating immune cells was not altered in the peripheral nerve of anti-FcRn antibody-treated mice compared to controls. However, in anti-FcRn antibody-treated mice, significantly lower IgG levels were detectable compared to controls. These findings suggest that targeting the FcRn recycling system does not influence disease progression in the NOD-ICAM1-deficient mouse model of CIDP. Further studies will elucidate whether the reduction of IgG levels was insufficient to deplete pathogenic autoantibodies or whether the major inflammatory driver in the NOD-ICAM1-deficient mouse animal model is mediated by factors other than pathological immunoglobulins.

Validation of the Korean version of inflammatory Rasch-built Overall Disability Scale in patients with inflammatory neuropathy.

The Inflammatory Rasch-built Overall Disability Scale (I-RODS) is an effective activity measure for use in inflammatory peripheral neuropathy. The aim of this study was to validate the Korean version of the I-RODS in patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), anti-myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG) neuropathy, and autoimmune nodopathy. A total of 120 patients underwent clinical evaluations, which included the I-RODS, Inflammatory Neuropathy Cause and Treatment (INCAT) assessment, and Jamar grip strength (kg) measurement. Follow-up assessments were performed for 83 patients during their regular clinic visits. To estimate the test-retest reliability of the I-RODS, the scale was reapplied to a subset of 16 patients within 2-7 days of the initial test. Overall, reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the I-RODS were evaluated. Internal consistency was good, as indicated by a person separation index of 0.966. The raw and standardized Cronbach's alpha values were both 0.974. The test-retest reliability analyzed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was also high (ICC = 0.972). The I-RODS showed a strong correlation with INCAT scores (ρ = -0.81, p < .001) and a moderate correlation with grip strength (ρ = 0.61, p < .001). Furthermore, the sensitivity for detecting clinically meaningful improvement was highest for grip strength (60.4%) followed by I-RODS (52.1%), while for capturing deterioration, it was highest for I-RODS (80.0%). The Korean version of the I-RODS is a reliable and valid tool for measuring disability in patients with inflammatory neuropathy. The I-RODS is useful for both clinical practice and research applications.

Comparison of Power Grip Strength in Male Knitter and Sedentary Worker

Context: The measurement of power grip strength is a simple and inexpensive method to assess hand functions. It is influenced by the health status and the level of occupational demand using hand. The study was carried out to compare the power grip strength of Bangladeshi male knitters and sedentary workers. Materials &amp; Methods: A cross sectional analytical study was conducted in Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka from January 2017 to December 2017 on thirty three (33) adult Bangladeshi male sedentary workers (group A) and ninety nine (99) adult Bangladeshi male knitters (group B). Ninety nine participants of knitters were further subdivided into three subgroups according to their working experience in years. Hand grip strength dynamometer (Camry, USA) was used to measure the power grip strength. Results: Statistically significant difference (P&lt;0.05) of mean power grip strength was observed between sedentary workers (group A) and knitters (group B) in both hands whereas the mean power grip strength was greater in the knitters than the sedentary workers. Among the knitters the more experienced subgroup had non-significantly higher (P&lt;0.05) power grip strength than the less experienced subgroups. Conclusion: The present study showed that power grip strength was higher in male Bangladeshi knitters compared to sedentary workers in both hands. Bangladesh Journal of Anatomy July 2021, Vol. 19, No. 1, pp. 22-25

EFFECTS OF CONCENTRIC EXERCISES WITH AND WITHOUT MULLIGAN WRIST MOBILIZATION ON PAIN, GRIP STRENGTH, RANGE OF MOTION AND FUNCTION AFTER DISTAL RADIUS FRACTURE

Background: Distal radius fractures are among the most common orthopedic injuries, often requiring effective rehabilitation strategies to restore function and mobility. Mulligan’s mobilization with movement (MWM) is widely used in musculoskeletal rehabilitation but requires further investigation to understand its effectiveness in improving outcomes following distal radius fractures. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adding MWM to a conventional concentric exercise regimen on pain, grip strength, range of motion (ROM), and wrist function in patients with distal radius fractures. Objective: To determine the impact of Mulligan’s mobilization with movement combined with concentric exercises on pain, ROM, grip strength, and wrist function compared to concentric exercises alone in patients with distal radius fractures. Methods: A single-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted at DHQ Hospital Sheikhupura. Twenty patients with distal radius fractures were randomly divided into two groups: Group A (n=10) received concentric exercises combined with MWM, and Group B (n=10) received concentric exercises alone. Treatment was administered three times a week for one month. Pain, wrist function, grip strength, and ROM were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE), dynamometer, and goniometer, respectively. Assessments were conducted pre- and post-intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS, with significance set at p&lt;0.05. Results: Group A showed significantly better improvements in all variables except ulnar deviation. NPRS scores improved from 5.40±1.42 to 1.50±0.52 in Group A compared to 6.50±1.35 to 2.50±1.08 in Group B (p&lt;0.05). PRWE scores decreased from 54.6±9.53 to 30.6±7.18 in Group A and from 63.10±14.75 to 44.40±13.85 in Group B (p&lt;0.05). Grip strength increased from 3.30±0.94 to 11.20±1.39 in Group A versus 2.10±0.73 to 4.20±1.22 in Group B (p&lt;0.05). ROM significantly improved in Group A for flexion, extension, radial deviation, pronation, and supination (p&lt;0.05), while ulnar deviation showed no significant difference between groups (p&gt;0.05). Conclusion: Adding Mulligan’s mobilization with movement to a conventional concentric exercise regimen significantly improved pain reduction, wrist function, grip strength, and most ROM measures compared to concentric exercises alone, except for ulnar deviation. This approach can be an effective rehabilitation strategy for patients with distal radius fractures.

Concordance of grip strength measurement between a digital handheld dynamometer and a Hydraulic dynamometer.

Assessment of muscle strength is of great interest for the study of age-associated pathologies, including frailty and sarcopenia. However, the cost of some of the equipment necessary for its evaluation could be prohibitive for its generalized use in some settings. The purpose of the present study was to compare two handheld dynamometers to evaluate the measure of concordance between the measurements. Material and methods The study was conducted in the outpatient Geriatrics clinics where 120 community-dwelling participants aged 60 years and more were evaluated using two devices: the JAMAR® Hydraulic Hand Dynamometer and the digital hand dynamometer CAMRY® EH101. We observed a positive correlation between the two devices for dominant hand (DH) Pearson r 0.974 (p < 0.001) and a Spearman ρ 0.973 (p < 0.001) for non-dominant hand (NDH) Lin's coefficient for the DH was 0.98 (p < 0.001) and for the NDH 0.97 (p < 0.001). The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.971 (95% CI, 0.95-0.97; p < 0.001) for DH and 0.975 (95% CI, 0.96-0.98; p < 0.001) for NDH. In this study, the Camry dynamometer was observed to be reliable for measuring hand grip strength in community-dwelling people 60 years or older.

Relationship between post traumatic stress disorder and hand dimensions and hand grip strength in children aged 8–12 exposed to earthquakes

Earthquakes cause severe destruction in the region where they occur. Children and adolescents are the group most affected group by earthquakes, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is most common in this group. The age-related increase in Grip Strength varies between childhood and early adolescence. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the relationship between Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Hand Grip and Hand Measurements of children exposed to the Kahramanmaraş-centered earthquake on February 6, 2023. The “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Response Scale for Children” was administered to 116 children who in children between the ages of 8 and 12 groups, and consent was obtained from the participants. Morphometric measurements of the hands of the children were measured with a digital caliper. Children’s hand Grip Strength measurements were made by using a digital hand dynamometer. The analysis of study data was performed with the SPSS (Statistical Program in Social Sciences) 25 software. Positive and statistically significant relationships were detected between right and left-hand Grip Strength and right and left-hand measurements of females and males (p < 0.05). Statistically significant and negative relationships were detected between PTSD and right and left-hand Grip Strength and right and left-hand measurements in females and males (p < 0.05).In the present study, it was detected that as post-traumatic stress disorder increases, hand Grip Strength decreases. We think that these findings will guide future prospective studies.

Comparison of grip strength measurements for predicting all-cause mortality among adults aged 20+ years from the NHANES 2011–2014

Little is known about the optimal measure of handgrip strength for predicting all-cause mortality and whether this association is modified by age or sex. We used data from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 9,583 adults aged ≥ 20 years were included. Equal-length grip strength was measured using a digital handheld Takei dynamometer. We defined five measurements of grip strength, i.e., the average of handgrip strength (HGS), maximum of grip strength (MGS), HGS/body mass index (BMI), HGS/height (HT)2, and MGS/weight, and three indicators of low grip strength, namely, low reference grip strength, lowest 20% grip strength, and low grip strength in sarcopenia. Information on deaths were obtained through linkage to National Death Index (NDI). Cox regression was used to assess the association of grip strength with mortality risk. HGS, MGS, HGS/BMI, HGS/HT2, and MGS/weight were all inversely associated with all-cause mortality, with HGS or HGS/HT2 (the area under the curve (AUC) = 0.714) being the optimal predictor of mortality, followed by MGS (AUC = 0.712). Participants with low grip strength showed increased risk of mortality regardless of which indicator was used, and the highest effect size was seen for lowest 20% grip strength group (hazard ratio (HR) = 2.20 for men, 2.52 for women). The above-mentioned correlations were consistently found in people of different ages and sexes. This study suggests the simplest measure of absolute grip strength (HGS, MGS) was the optimal index for predicting all-cause mortality, followed by HGS/HT2. Keeping an adequate level of handgrip strength may be beneficial to reduce the risk of mortality.

Exploring the Connections Between Grip Strength, Nutritional Status, Frailty, Depression, and Cognition as Initial Assessment Tools in Geriatric Rehabilitation-A Pilot Study.

Background and Objective: In the context of the rapidly aging global population, the older adult vulnerability poses a significant challenge for public health systems. Frailty, cognitive and nutritional status, depression, and grip strength are essential parameters for staging the vulnerability of older adults. The objective of this study is to identify a rapid but multidimensional geriatric assessment tool that can enhance the rehabilitation process for older adults, tailored to their specific needs. Materials and Methods: This pilot study examines the relationships between grip strength, nutritional status, frailty, depression, and cognition in a group of 80 older adults with a mean age of 69.6 years, 49 male and 31 female, using standardized geriatric scales and digital grip strength measurements. The study employed a digital dynamometer, a portable and reliable tool that facilitated quick and accurate grip strength measurements. Results: The analysis revealed significant correlations among the parameters. Greater grip strength was associated with better cognitive performance (r = 0.237, p = 0.034) and improved nutritional status (r = 0.267, p = 0.016), while it was inversely related to frailty (r = -0.313, p = 0.005). Nutritional status also played a key role, showing an inverse relationship with frailty (r = -0.333, p = 0.003) and depression levels (r = -0.248, p = 0.027). Furthermore, frailty and depression were strongly interconnected, with those experiencing higher frailty levels also displaying more severe depressive symptoms (r = 0.545, p < 0.001). Marital status was also relevant: married participants exhibited higher grip strength, lower frailty, and fewer depressive symptoms, suggesting that social support positively influences both physical and mental health in older adults. Conclusions: These findings not only emphasize the need for integrated care approaches that simultaneously address physical health, nutrition, and cognitive function, but also provide a foundation for the development of a rapid and multidimensional assessment protocol, which consists of using a digital dynamometer and four geriatric scales. Such a tool could play a crucial role in the early detection of frailty syndrome and guide the implementation of multidisciplinary, tailored therapeutic strategies aimed at preserving the autonomy and improving the quality of life of older adults.

Reliability, validity and usability of the K-force® grip dynamometer to evaluate handgrip-strength in patients with intensive care unit-acquired weakness.

Handgrip dynamometry is recognised as a method for evaluating volitional muscle strength in the intensive care, but conventional handgrip dynamometers cannot accurately measure grip strength in very weak patients. The aim of this study was to determine the reliability, validity and usability of the K-force® grip in patients with intensive care unit-acquired weakness. Evaluation of measurement properties of the K-force® grip. Two Intensive Care Units in The Netherlands. Patients diagnosed with intensive care unit-acquired weakness according to a Medical Research Council sum score <48. Intra- and inter-rater reliability of the K-force® grip were assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient. Concurrent validity was examined using calibration weights. The usability was evaluated with the System Usability Scale. Intra-rater reliability showed an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.987 for the dominant hand and 0.972 for the non-dominant hand. Inter-rater reliability showed coefficients of 0.944 for the dominant hand and 0.942 for the non-dominant hand. There was a perfect correlation (r = 1) between the K-force® grip and the calibration weights. The usability of the K-force® grip was rated excellent by 11 healthcare professionals with a System Usability Scale score of 86. The K-force® grip is a promising new tool for the evaluation of muscle strength in intensive care unit-acquired weakness patients who are too weak to use conventional hand dynamometers.

Dynamic Analysis of Upper- and Lower-Extremity Performance During Take-Offs and Landings in High-Wall Climbing: Effects of a Plyometric and Strength Training Intervention

This study used a 12-week plyometric and strength training program as an intervention to improve upper- and lower-extremity muscle strength for jumping and landing when climbing high walls. Sixty general non-athlete male college students were openly recruited and divided into an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group underwent a plyometric and strength training program twice a week for 12 weeks (24 sessions). The intervention was divided into three phases, each lasting four weeks, with the training intensity gradually increasing in each phase. A hand grip dynamometer was used to measure grip strength, and a PASCO double-track force plate was used to assess upper-extremity push-up force and lower-extremity take-off and landing strength. The results of the 12-week intervention showed that the experimental group experienced significant increases in grip strength (both hands), hand-ground reaction force, and upper-extremity hang time. Additionally, the time of upper-extremity action on the force plate decreased. Lower-extremity take-off strength improved, as reflected in increased ground reaction force, rate of force development, and passage time. Upon landing, ground reaction force decreased by 3.2%, and cushioning time shortened by 52.7%. This study concludes that plyometric and strength training have promising effects in enhancing upper- and lower-extremity strength, particularly in climbing and landing tasks.

Multi-domain predictors of grip strength differentiate individuals with and without alcohol use disorder.

Grip strength is considered one of the simplest and reliable indices of general health. Although motor ability and strength are commonly affected in people with alcohol use disorder (AUD), factors predictive of grip strength decline in AUD have not been investigated. Here, we employed a data-driven analysis predicting grip strength from measurements in 53 controls and 110 AUD participants, 53 of whom were comorbid with HIV infection. Controls and AUD were matched on sex, age, and body mass index. Measurements included commonly available metrics of brain structure, neuropsychological functioning, behavioural status, haematological and health status, and demographics. Based on 5-fold stratified cross-validation, a machine learning approach predicted grip strength separately for each cohort. The strongest (top 10%) predictors of grip were then tested against grip strength with correlational analysis. Leading grip strength predictors for both cohorts were cerebellar volume and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration. Predictors specific to controls were Backwards Digit Span, precentral gyrus volume, diastolic blood pressure, and mean platelet volume, which together significantly predicted grip strength (R2=0.255, p= 0.001). Unique predictors for AUD were comorbidity for HIV infection, social functioning, insular volume, and platelet count, which together significantly predicted grip strength (R2=0.162, p= 0.002). These cohort-specific predictors were doubly dissociated. Salient predictors of grip strength differed by diagnosis with only modest overlap. The constellation of cohort-specific predictive measurements of compromised grip strength provides insight into brain, behavioural, and physiological factors that may signal subtly affected yet treatable processes of physical decline and frailty.

Interrelationships of cervical spine sagittal alignment and whole spinopelvic alignment under implications of musculoskeletal health among independent elderly women in Taiwan: A cross-sectional study.

Older women are at increased risk of spinal misalignment and its associated complications. This study investigated the influence of age, grip strength, and various sagittal spinal parameters on spinal alignment. The results indicate the need for comprehensive management strategies. This cross-sectional study included 200 older women who underwent bone health evaluations at the orthopedic department of a hospital. The study participants underwent dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, grip strength measurement, and full-length spine radiography. Clinical and radiographic parameters were analyzed through Pearson correlation and linear regression analyses. Significant correlations were identified between grip strength and spinal parameters such as C7 slope and global tilt, indicating that muscle strength affects spinal alignment. Advanced age was associated with changes in sagittal spinal parameters, indicating that changes occur in body compensation over time. Furthermore, pelvic parameters such as pelvic tilt and sacral slope were significantly correlated with spinal curvature, indicating their critical roles in maintaining spinal stability. This study revealed the critical roles of muscle strength and pelvic alignment in the management of spinal health in older women with low bone mass. Targeted interventions for increasing muscle strength, correcting posture, and achieving hormonal balance can notably improve spinal stability and reduce the risk of associated complications. Longitudinal studies should be conducted to validate and refine the intervention strategies and to extend the study findings.