Pinch Gauge Research Articles

Comparing Isolated Thumb Force Generation, Wrist Rotation, and Clinical Measurements in Healthy and Osteoarthritic Individuals before and after Surgery.

Thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis (OA) is caused by the degeneration of joint surfaces at the base of the thumb. If conservative treatments have failed, surgery may be needed to improve symptoms. Typically, standard clinical tools, such as the pinch gauge, are used to measure thumb force. However, these devices have utilized multiple digits and do not represent forces specifically generated by the thumb. Therefore, different devices are necessary to accurately measure isolated thumb force. The primary objective was to research the effect of thumb force after ligament reconstruction with tendon interposition surgery. To accomplish this, several sub-objectives were implemented: (1) create a testing device to collect isolated thumb forces, (2) collect a normative thumb force data set of males and females to compare the impact of aging and surgery, (3) collect and compare clinical data to see if these data sets matched isolated thumb forces, (4) determine the effect of wrist position on isolated thumb force data in different wrist positions, and (5) collect thumb force in directions that mimic daily activities, a directional force downward (push) and inward (pull). On average, older participants generated statistically larger forces than younger participants. Additionally, only 50% of CMC OA participants showed greater than 5 N of improvement at 6-months post-surgery compared to pre-surgery, but did not reach healthy force levels. When evaluating wrist rotation, OA participants' push and pull decreased by 8 N and 7 N in the horizontal wrist position, and their push and pull increased by 2 N and 5 N in the vertical wrist position. Evaluation and results with standard clinical tools showed different post-surgery trends than isolated force data, which suggested the clinical approach has mixed results and may be under- or over-estimating the recovery process. These data sets allow surgeons and hand therapists to identify changes in isolated thumb force generation to create specialized therapies and treatment options, which is an improvement upon current clinical measurement tools.

Iron deficiency anemia in relation to pinch strength and hand dexterity in preschool children: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundIron deficiency anemia (IDA) constitutes a considerable nutritional problem in Egyptian preschool children. Moreover, IDA limits physical activity performance and interferes with children's development. Accordingly, we aim to investigate the correlation between IDA and hand dexterity and pinch grip strength in preschool children.ResultsThis observational cross-sectional study encompassed the participation of 87 children, comprising both genders, with an age range of 5–6 years. The cohort was initially stratified into three distinct groups: Group A comprised 36 non-anemic children, group B included 25 children with mild iron-deficiency anemia (IDA), and group C consisted of 26 children with moderate IDA. After group delineation, comprehensive laboratory analyses were performed on all participants to assess for IDA, involving a thorough examination of their complete blood picture, hemoglobin (Hb) levels, serum iron levels, and serum ferritin levels. The evaluative metrics employed in this study encompassed the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency-Second Edition (BOT-2) and the Baseline Mechanical Pinch Gauge. These instruments were utilized to assess manual dexterity and pinch strength, specifically tip-to-tip and tripod strength. This investigation revealed a positive correlation between Hb, serum iron, and serum ferritin levels with both manual dexterity and pinch strength across all three groups.ConclusionThis study highlights that IDA negatively affects hand dexterity and pinch grip strength in preschool children. Managing IDA early is crucial for improving their physical performance and overall development.

A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY OF THUMB FUNCTION FOLLOWING FIRST CARPOMETACARPAL JOINT ARTHRODESIS

IntroductionDespite the rising popularity of 1st carpometacarpal joint (CMCJ) arthrodesis as one of the surgical options for basilar thumb arthritis, the available literature on this is poor. This study aims to investigate post-operative pinch and grip strength following 1st CMCJ arthrodesis, at a minimum of 1 year follow-up. Complication rates, range of motion and patient reported scores were also evaluated.MethodsA retrospective cohort (2012–2020) was used, which included patients who had arthrodesis performed by the Hands surgeons at Counties Manukau DHB. In a 15 minute visit, we took the measurements using our standard dynamometer and pinch gauge, and collected three questionnaires [QuickDASH, PRWHE, PEM]. For analysis, we compared our results to the preoperative measures, contralateral hand, and to a previous study on a similar cohort looking at thumb strength following trapeziectomy.Results42 arthrodesis were performed, and 24 were available for follow-up. The average follow-up time was 77 months and the average age was 51 years old. Overall, we found a statistically significant improvement in thumb strength following surgery. Mean preoperative grip strength was 21.4kg and 32.5kg postoperatively (= +11kg). Preoperative pinch strength was 5.5kg and 7kg postoperatively (= +1.5kg). These results were significantly higher compared to the trapeziectomy cohort. We also found an improvement in 1st CMCJ ROM post-operatively. 7 complications were reported (29.1%). 4 were metalware-related and 3 were non-union. QuickDASH score significantly improved from a median of 42.95 to 12.5 while PRWHE from 67.5 to 14.5. Overall patient satisfaction was 87.4%.Conclusion1st CMCJ arthrodesis leads to an improvement in thumb function, pain and range of movement and results in high patient satisfaction, and therefore should be recommended for younger patients who need a pain-free and strong thumb.

Exploratory analysis using machine learning algorithms to predict pinch strength by anthropometric and socio-demographic features

Objectives. This study examines the role of different machine learning (ML) algorithms to determine which socio-demographic factors and hand–forearm anthropometric dimensions can be used to accurately predict hand function. Methods. The cross-sectional study was conducted with 7119 healthy Iranian participants (3525 males and 3594 females) aged 10–89 years. Seventeen hand–forearm anthropometric dimensions were measured by JEGS digital caliper and a measuring tape. Tip-to-tip, key and three-jaw chuck pinches were measured using a calibrated pinch gauge. Subsequently, 21 features pertinent to socio-demographic factors and hand–forearm anthropometric dimensions were used for classification. Furthermore, 12 well-known classifiers were implemented and evaluated to predict pinches. Results. Among the 21 features considered in this study, hand length, stature, age, thumb length and index finger length were found to be the most relevant and effective components for each of the three pinch predictions. The k-nearest neighbor, adaptive boosting (AdaBoost) and random forest classifiers achieved the highest classification accuracy of 96.75, 86.49 and 84.66% to predict three pinches, respectively. Conclusions. Predicting pinch strength and determining the predictive hand–forearm anthropometric and socio-demographic characteristics using ML may pave the way to designing an enhanced tool handle and reduce common musculoskeletal disorders of the hand.

Hand Grip and Pinch Strength in a Healthy Children Norms for 6 to 18 Years in Al-Kharj City, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Background: Measuring and comparing grip and pinch strengths with their normative data is a valid method to detect intensity of the numerous damages of hand. The aim of the study was to establish the normative data of grip strength and three types of pinch strengths (Key, Tip and Palmar) in healthy Saudi’s children. Method: In this cross-sectional study, of grip strength and three types of pinch strengths (Tip, Key and Palmar) were recorded for 82 healthy children (41 boys and 41 girls) heathy children aged 7-18 years. The Camry Electronic Hand Dynamometer and Hydraulic Pinch Gauge were used to measure grip strength and pinch strength, respectively. Result: Normative data of grip and pinch strengths were provided. Grip and pinch strengths of both genders were close to each other’s and increasing consistently with increasing age. The maximum grip strength and pinch strength was obtained in the group of 14-18 years among both genders. In addition: Study results showed that there was a significant association between weight and all the hand grip strength and pinch strength (p < 0.05) in boys whereas BMI considered as an effective parameter on grip strength and tip pinch strength in girls. Conclusions: Findings from the present study provide reference values for hand grip strength and pinch strength for healthy children from 6- which will be useful to guide rehabilitation outcomes in routine clinical practice.18 years of age which will be useful to guide rehabilitation outcomes in routine clinical practice.

Hand grips strength in athletic and non-athletic girls at different phases of menstrual cycle: an observational case–control study

BackgroundThere are a significant number of female athletes competing at the highest levels of sport. But, women are still largely underrepresented in scientific literature. The female menstrual cycle is characterized by variations in circulating hormone levels, which may have an impact on performance.AimThis study aimed to assess the impact of hormonal changes through different menstrual cycle phases on hand grip strength, pulp pinch strength, three fingers pinch strength, and lateral pinch strength of athletic and non-athletic girls.MethodsAn observational case control study was conducted on forty post-pubertal girls, their ages ranged from 16 to 22 years old, and their body mass index (BMI) ranged from 18.5 to 25 kg/m2. They were divided into two groups: athletic group of twenty basketball and tennis players recruited from basketball and tennis teams at Mena Garden City Club, 6 October Club, and Shooting Club October and non-athletic group of twenty non-sportive undergraduate students from Faculty of Physical Therapy, Misr University for Science and Technology. Hand grip strength was evaluated by Jamar hand dynamometer, while pulp pinch strength, three fingers pinch strength, and lateral pinch strength were evaluated by Jamar pinch gauge through three different menstrual cycle phases (follicular, ovulatory and luteal phases).ResultsStatistical analysis demonstrated a significant increase in handgrip strength, pulp pinch strength, three fingers pinch strength, and lateral pinch strength in non-athletic group. Also, there was a significant increase in three fingers pinch strength and lateral pinch strength in athletic group during the ovulatory phase across the menstrual cycle (p < 0.05). But, there was a significant difference across menstrual phases in handgrip strength and pulp pinch strength in athletic group (p > 0.05).ConclusionHormonal changes during menstrual cycle phases do not alter handgrip strength, pulp pinch strength performance for athletic girls. But, they alter hand grip strength, pulp pinch strength, three fingers, and lateral pinch grip strength performance for non-athletic girls.Trial registrationThe protocol of the study was registered in clinical trials.gov PRS (Protocol Registration and Result System (registration No.NCT06086262), Registered on 17 October 2023). The study received ethical approval from the Institutional Review Board of the Faculty of Physical Therapy at Cairo University prior to its beginning (approval No P.T.REC/012/003358) .

Effect of touch screen tablet use on fine motor functions in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled trial.

Cerebral palsy is the most frequent condition affecting the central nervous system and causing large disability. To determine the impact of touch screen tablet upon fine motor functions in children with hemiparesis. This was a randomized controlled trial involving 60 children, ranging in age from 5 to 7 years old, randomized into two groups: intervention or control group (30 children per group). Both groups were given 12 consecutive weeks of designed fine motor tasks. Additionally, for thirty minutes, the intervention group was given a fine motor exercise program on a touch screen tablet. Upper limb function, finger dexterity and pinch strength were measured pre and post the recommended treatment program using the quality of upper extremity skill test (QUEST), Nine-Hole Peg Test and Jamar hydraulic pinch gauge, respectively. All outcome measures were equivalent between intervention groups at admission (P > 0.05). Significant improvements were found in all assessed variables within the two groups. Meanwhile, the intervention group had significantly higher improvements (P < 0.05) in finger dexterity, pinch strength, and upper limb function when compared with the control groups. Including a touch screen smart tablet application with a specially designed fine motor program is an effective method that helps children with U-CP perform more effectively with their fine motor skills.

Effects of Soft Tissue Massage Along with Mobilization Technique on Intensity of Symptoms and Functional Status of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial

The median nerve in the wrist is compressed in the carpal tunnel, causing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). The symptoms of this condition include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers. The effectiveness of soft tissue massage along with mobilization techniques in managing CTS symptoms and improving functional status is an area to explored. Objective: To determine the effects of soft tissue massage along with mobilization technique on intensity of pain and functional status in Carpal tunnel syndrome patients. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 60 patients with mild and moderate carpal tunnel syndrome at Sindh Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Karachi. In group A, soft tissue massage (Medenci hand massage technique) was combined with joint (radiocarpal and inter-carpal) and median nerve mobilization sliders, whereas in group B, only joint and median nerve mobilization sliders were used. A visual analog pain scale, the Boston scale of carpal tunnel syndrome, a dynamometer and a pinch gauge were used to evaluate participant on day 1 and the last treatment session. Results: There was no significant difference between group A and B after treatment. However, there was significant improvement (p&lt;0.05) in intragroup analysis in all outcome measures after treatment in both groups with p&lt; 0.05. Conclusions: Soft tissue massage along with joint and nerve mobilization is effective in symptoms severity and functional status. To further validate the findings of this study, similar investigations will need to be undertaken in the future to consider it before surgical intervention in CTS.

Correlation of Lateral Pinch Strength with Hand Span in Bead Embroiderers

Background: Lateral pinch strength is a commonly employed indices of strength used in hand evaluations. For all handicrafts professionals, grip and pinch strength is an important criterion to be successful in their profession. The bead embroiderers are one of the major handicrafts worker groups of Bangladesh. Objectives: The study was planned to compare and correlate hand span and lateral pinch strength of the hand in bead embroiderers to establish baseline data of our own for further studies. Materials and Methods: There was a cross-sectional and analytical study conducted on 150 bead embroiderers in group B and 50 sedentary workers in group A, carried out in the Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka between July 2016 and July 2017. The lateral pinch was measured by using a Pinch Gauge Dynamometer. The hand span was taken by using a ruler and unpaired student’s t-test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient were done to compare and correlate.Results: Lateral pinch strength showed a significant positive correlation with hand span in group B (r = +0.234, P&lt;0.01) and non-significant positive correlation with hand span in group A (r = +0.275, P=0.053).Conclusion: The study findings may contribute significantly to current knowledge for designing machines and handheld devices.KYAMC Journal Vol. 14, No. 02, July 2023: 92-95.

Long-Term Outcomes in Female Patients With Carpometacarpal Arthroplasty and Metacarpophalangeal Fusion Compared With the Unoperated Side or Carpometacarpal Arthroplasty

Patients with carpometacarpal (CMC) osteoarthritis (OA) often present with metacarpophalangeal (MP) hyperextension and/or thenar atrophy. This study hypothesizes that MP fusion (MPF) performed at the time of CMC arthroplasty (CMCA) for patients who have moderate-to-severe thenar atrophy, MP hyperextension >30°, or MP arthritis will have greater long-term pinch strength and improvements in the Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score from preoperative values when compared with the unoperated side or those who had CMCA only. This study involved a retrospective review of long-term results from patients who underwent either CMCA or CMCA/MPF. The QuickDASH score, the pain visual analog scale (VAS), and an average of three pinch readings from each thumb were measured on the Baseline pinch gauge and recorded with a correction for hand dominance in right-handed patients. Fifty-three female patients with 70 operated thumbs were included in the study. The mean age was 67.2 years. There were 29 CMCAs and 41CMCA/MPFs. The mean follow-up was 6.3 years (range 2-16.9 years). At the latest follow-up, the mean CMCA/MPF pinch strength (11.3 lbs) was significantly stronger than that of CMCA (8.0 lbs) and carpometacarpal osteoarthritis thumbs (8.9 lbs). There was no significant difference in pinch strength between patients who underwent a CMCA and CMCOA thumbs (8.0 lbs vs 8.9 lbs, respectively). Preoperative QuickDASH demonstrated worse function in the CMCA/MPF group (55.8 vs 36.5). At the latest follow-up, QuickDASH and VAS revealed similar values in both the CMCA/MPF (10.5 and 0.66) and CMCA (18.5 and 0.52) groups. Long-term results demonstrate stronger pinch and greater improvement in QuickDASH scores in patients who underwent CMCA/MPF compared with those who underwent a CMCA or untreated carpometacarpal osteoarthritis thumbs. Therapeutic IV.

Investigating the impact of demographic factors and working with computers on the hand grip and pinch strength of office workers

Introduction: In office tasks, pinch gripping of tools such as pen, paper, mouse, and keys are required during most working hours. This study aimed to determine the effect of demographic factors and working with a computer on office workers' hand grip and pinch strength.&#x0D; Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional analytical study, after recording the demographic characteristics, the hand grip and pinch strength of 174 employees of 20 offices of Birjand city with at least 3 hours of daily computer work was measured using a Jamar hand dynamometer and Saehan pinch gauge. The data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software version 16. In addition to descriptive statistics, ANOVA, independent t-test, and Pearson correlation coefficient were used.&#x0D; Results: The mean and standard deviation related to the age of the subjects were 37.5 ± 7.15 and 13 ± 7.35 years. The relationship between the hand grip and pinch strength with the variables of sex, height, weight, and Handedness (except the tip of the males) was significant (P&lt;0.05), but with the variables of BMI, work experience, and age (except palmar of the dominant hand) was not significant. Computer work duration significantly affected the dominant hand's grip strength and both hands' palmar and tip pinch (P&lt;0.05).&#x0D; Conclusion: The results of this study show the effect of computer work duration on reducing office workers' hand grip and pinch strength. Therefore, it is recommended to apply ergonomic principles to maintain hand grip and pinch strength of computer users.

Pinch strength analyses in lacertus syndrome

PurposeLacertus syndrome is defined as proximal median nerve entrapment at the lacertus fibrosus. We aimed to analyze change in pinch strengths in patients who underwent median nerve release at the lacertus fibrosus under WALANT (wide-awake local anesthesia, no tourniquet). MethodsPinch strength was measured with a pinch gauge. Subjective DASH score and pain, numbness in the operated extremity and satisfaction on visual analog scales were analyzed before and 6 weeks after surgery. ResultsThere were 32 patients. Median nerve release under the lacertus fibrosus elicited statistically significant increases in tip-to-tip, lateral and tripod pinch strength at postoperative week 6. Improvements in DASH score, pain and paresthesia were also statistically significant. ConclusionsFor lacertus syndrome treatment, mini-incision release of the lacertus fibrosus under WALANT was satisfactory and increased pinch strength significatively. Level of evidenceTherapeutic, Level IV – Case series.

Effects of Cryokinetics on Hand Function of Patients with Spinal Cord Injury

This study investigated the effects of cryokinetics on hand function of subjects with spinal cord injury. The present study has an experimental design. Thirty-nine subjects with upper spinal cord injury were included. Handgrip and pinch strength were measured using electronic hand dynamometer (in kg) and mechanical pinch gauge (in kg) respectively prior to and following an 8-week cryokinetics. The amount of handgrip and pinch strength of both hands generated by each participant was used as a quantitative measurement of the development of hand function. Inferential statistics of multiple analysis of variance was used to analyze the data. Statistical significance was retained for p value &lt;0.05. The results of this study revealed that the strength training and the cryotherapy programmes separately had insignificant (p&gt;0.05) effects on the hand function of the subjects. However, cryokinetics had significant (p&lt;0.05) effects on the hand function of subjects with upper spinal cord injury. It was therefore concluded that the strength training programmes and cryotherapy individually cannot substantially influence hand function of subjects with upper spinal cord injury whereas, cryokinetics can substantially enhance hand function of the participants. Thus, cryokinetics is an excellent intervention protocol for optimizing hand function of subjects with upper spinal cord injury. It was therefore recommended that cryokinetics should be regarded as keystone in the management of subjects with upper spinal cord injury.

Effect of radiofrequency in de Quervain's tenosynovitis: A randomized control trial

Background. De Quervain's tenosynovitis is mucoid degeneration of the tendon sheaths of the two tendons that regulate the mobility of the thumb. As a result, the wrist's thumb side is painful and uncomfortable. Objectives. To assess radiofrequency's effectiveness in patients with de Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Design. A prospective randomized controlled trial. Setting. physical therapy department, Rail Way Hospital. Methods. 40 participants with de Quervain’s tenosynovitis. Participants were divided into two groups at random: group A (control group), which received an ultrasound, transverse friction massage, and strengthening exercises; and group B (study group), which received radiofrequency plus ultrasound, transverse friction massage, and strengthening exercises. Pain intensity, hand grip strength, and pinch strength were all measured at the baseline and after 4 weeks of treatment by using the visual analog scale, Jamar dynamometer, and pinch gauge, respectively. Results. All outcome indicators in both groups improved statistically significantly (P &lt; 0.05), according to within-group comparisons. The between-group comparisons showed significant improvement in all outcome measures for both groups (P &lt; 0.05), with the study group showing superior improvement to the control group; the study group's VAS improvement percentage was 28.7%, its grip strength improvement percentage was 6.71%, and its pinch strength improvement percentage was 28.6%. Conclusion. In comparison to ultrasound, transverse friction massage, and strengthen exercise, radiofrequency plus ultrasound, transverse friction massage, and strengthen exercise resulted in greater improvements in de Quervain's tenosynovitis patients' pain intensity, hand grip strength, and pinch strength.

Comparing the effect of rhythmic stabilization and combination of isotonic technique on grip strength, pinch strength and dexterity of hand among middle aged healthy individuals - a randomized clinical trial

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the effects of Rhythmic Stabilization and a combination of isotonic technique on grip strength, pinch strength, and dexterity of hand among middle aged healthy individuals. Methods&#x0D; Forty middle aged healthy individuals were selected on the basis of inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants were randomly allocated to two groups, with 20 in group A (Rhythmic Stabilization) and 20 in group B (Combination of Isotonic Technique). Treatment was given for 4 weeks, thrice a week.&#x0D; Outcome measures: grip strength, pinch strength, and dexterity were assessed by the Jamar hand dynamometer, the Pinch gauge, and the Perdue peg board, respectively. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline and after 4 weeks of treatment.&#x0D; Results&#x0D; Notably, Group A participants showed a significant improvement in all outcome measures compared to Group B (p&lt;0.05) when compared. Both the interventions were effective for dexterity outcome in both groups (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: This study provides evidence that application of Rhythmic Stabilization improves grip strength and pinch strength. This suggests that static Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) exercises performed on the fingers can improve dexterity, grip strength, and pinch strength in the middle-aged population.&#x0D; Highlights&#x0D; As age increases, there is decrease in grip strength and dexterity of a person.&#x0D; The grip strength, finger strength and dexterity are inter-related.&#x0D; The Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation increases strength of muscles.&#x0D; The static PNF exercises are more effective than the dynamic PNF exercises to improve strength of grip strength, finger strength and dexterity.

Scaphocapitate Fusion with lunatum excision in advanced Kienböck disease: 5.3-year mean follow-up

Objective: This study evaluated the clinical and radiological outcomes of scaphocapitate fusion (SCF) performed after lunate excision in patients with advanced Stage III Kienbock's disease. Materials and method: Eleven patients diagnosed with Stage 3 Kienbock's disease who underwent SCF following lunate excision retrospectively evaluated in this study. The scores of arm, shoulder and hand disability (DASH) and Visual Analogue Scores (VAS) recorded preoperatively were also recorded at the final follow-ups after surgery. Wrist ROM (flexion, extension, radial, ulnar) was measured using a goniometer in the operated and contralateral wrists. Grip, tip pinch, key pinch forces and palmar grip were measured using a Jamar dynamometer and pinch gauge (Model SH 5005, South Korea). Results: The study included a total of eleven patients including six female and five male patients. The mean follow-up period was 63.45 months (range 24-86). According to the functional evaluation, the mean preoperative and postoperative Visual Analog Scores (VAS) were 8.45 (range 7-10) and 1.18 (range 0-3), respectively. The mean disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score was reduced from 52.27 (range 36.40-70) to 16.51 (4.5-47.7) between the preoperative and postoperative periods. According to the evaluation of joint range of motion, the mean range of flexion was 72.9%, the mean range of extension was 84.9%, the mean radial deviation range was 57.35% and the mean ulnar deviation range was 82.46% in the operated hands compared to the contralateral wrist. While wrist flexion and extension ranges exhibited a statistically significant increase, radial deviation exhibited a statistically significant decrease compared to the preoperative period (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: SCF after lunate excision is a successful surgical method that provides pain relief and increases joint range of motion by maintaining acceptable range of motion in the medium-long term.

Effect of premodulated interferential current versus diadynamic current on the management of lateral elbow tendinopathy

Abstract Study aim: To compare the effect of premodulated interferential current (PREMOD IFC) and diadynamic current (DD) with exercise training on the management of lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET). Material and methods: One hundred and four patients with unilateral LET from both genders (55 females and 49 males) were randomly allocated into two groups. Group A received PREMOD IFC in addition to the exercises, and group B received DD with the same exercises. The outcomes were maximum grip strength assessed by the hand dynamometer, the pinch strength assessed by the pinch gauge dynamometer, and pain and functional disability of the forearm assessed by a patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation (PRTEE) questionnaire. All participants received electrical stimulation, consisting of three sessions per week for six weeks. Results: The mean PRTEE score, and grip strength were significantly improved after six weeks in favour of group A, while there was no significant difference between the two groups in pinch strength. (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The results revealed that the combination of PREMOD IFC with exercises could improve pain, functional disability, and grip strength compared to DD with exercises in LET patients without a significant difference between the two groups in pinch strength.

The effects of motor imagery on trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis in women during the post-surgical immobilisation period: A protocol for a randomised clinical trial

Background: Trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis is the second most frequent degenerative hand disease and is the most functionally debilitating. The condition presents in 66% of women over 55. Motor imagery (MI) training post-surgery could help reduce rehabilitation times. Method: It is an experimental, prospective, longitudinal, parallel arm randomised clinical trial. Participants were women over 50 years old on the surgical waiting list. The experimental group will undergo MI training during the 3-week post-surgical immobilisation period. The control group will receive standard rehabilitation treatment. Outcomes will be assessed four times throughout the study using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire, the Cochin Hand Function Scale questionnaire, the Visual Analogue Scale, goniometry, baseline pinch gauge, circumferential measurement (cm), the Modified Kapandji Index and the Kinaesthetic and Visual Imagery questionnaire. Discussion: Early MI could improve hand function leading to improvements in recovery times. Trial registration: Clinical Trials registration: NCT03815734. Ethics Committee approval: 17155. Project funded in 2021.

Horticultural Therapy for Improving the Work Performance and Interpersonal Relationships of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities.

For the occupational adaptation and social integration of the intellectually disabled, it is helpful to improve their work performance and interpersonal skills. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of horticultural therapy (HT) programs to improve work performance and interpersonal relationships of persons with intellectual disabilities. Based on observations and analyses of how people with intellectual disabilities work, we have developed a 12-session HT program that includes upper limb movements and physical activities to improve hand function. We recruited, with the consent of their legal guardians, 14 (6 males, 8 females) participants who had intellectual disabilities and were working at a sheltered workshop in K-gu, Seoul, South Korea. The program consisted of twelve sixty-minute sessions that were conducted twice a week at a rooftop garden. For pre- and post-evaluation of the program, the survey of functional adaptive behavior (SFAB), interpersonal negotiation strategies, a horticultural job evaluation (self), hand function tests (pegboard, pinch gauge, fingertips), and blood sample tests for physiological indicators of exercise were conducted. Interpersonal negotiation strategies, functional adaptive behaviors, and physical abilities for job behaviors, including agility and grasping of the hand, improved significantly from before to after the program (p < 0.05). A positive result of VEGF (vascular endothermic growth factor) in blood sample tests implies the need for further research on cognitive changes caused by horticultural activities. This study has limitations due to the small number of participants, but the results suggest that low- to medium-intensity horticultural treatment programs using the upper body and hands could be effective for vocational rehabilitation of the intellectually disabled.

The effects of supervised and non-supervised upper limb virtual reality exercises on upper limb sensory-motor functions in patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease.

Impairments of upper limb (UL) sensory-motor functions are common in Parkinson's disease (PD). Virtual reality exercises may improve sensory-motor functions in a safe environment and can be used in tele-rehabilitation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of supervised and non-supervised UL virtual reality exercises (ULVRE) on UL sensory-motor functions in patients with idiopathic PD. In this clinical trial study, 45 patients with idiopathic PD (29 male) by mean±SD age of 58.64±8.69years were randomly allocated to either the control group (conventional rehabilitation exercises), supervised ULVRE or non-supervised ULVRE. Interventions were 24 sessions, 3 sessions/week. Before/after of interventions and follow-up period all assessment was done. Hand Active Sensation Test and Wrist Position Sense Test were used for assessing UL sensory function. Gross and fine manual dexterity were assessed by Box-Block Test and Nine-Hole Peg Test, respectively. Grip and pinch strength were evaluated by a dynamometer and pinch gauge, respectively. The results showed significant improvement in discriminative sensory function (HAST-weight and HAST-total), wrist proprioception, gross manual dexterity and grip strength of both less and more affected hands as well as fine manual dexterity of the more affected hand in the three groups in patients with idiopathic PD (P<0.05). The results of this study indicated that both supervised and non-supervised ULVRE using the Kinect device might potentially improve some aspects of UL sensory-motor functions in patients with PD. Therefore, ULVRE using the Kinect device can be used in tele-rehabilitation, especially in the current limitations induced by the COVID-19 pandemic, for improving UL functions in patients with PD.