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Pinch grip is important for individuals to perform activities of daily living and various everyday tasks. Testing for pinch grip strength is important to be able to understand impairments and functional limitations a patient is experiencing.
What are we evaluating with pinch grip strength testing?
When administering pinch grip strength testing, we must think what we are exactly attempting to measure. There are many different types of grips in which are correlated with various tasks individuals performing. The types of pinches typically measured are two-point pinch, lateral pinch, and three-point pinch.1
Also, there are various muscles that are involved when performing these types of pinches. The muscles that are involved include the adductor pollicis, 1st dorsal interossei, and flexor pollicis brevis.2
What can we use to evaluate pinch strength?
Baseline®, BIMS® Digital 5-Position Pinch Dynamometer.
The BIMS® Digital 5-Position Pinch Dynamometer by Baseline represents the latest and greatest technology applied to a familiar product. Introducing load-cell digital technology. A more accurate, repeatable, and consistent measurement mechanic compared to the standard hydraulic dynamometer. With this new digital application, BIMS dynamometers are hydraulic oil-free, and all functions do not require moving parts that are prone to breaking or leaking. Each dynamometer features adjustable 5-position paddles that fit all hand sizes and enable testing at various grip positions. Simple and easy to use, just press select to begin the test and delete to reset the test to zero. The BIMS dynamometer saves time by calculating mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, and other statistics all in this feature packed device. Designed for both strong and weak patients. Tests are shown in real time, with strength readings being displayed in both pounds and kilograms. Extended testing capacity can measure grip strength up to 100 lbs. (45 kg). The clinic model is ideal for clinic practitioners to perform timed tests which are calculated and saved on the device. The preset Max Force, Quick, and General Strength protocols provide the necessary tests in a clinical setting. Results are shown on a fully colored LCD screen that easy to read. These results are stored either on the device itself or transferred to your local PC. The BIMS dynamometer is also Bluetooth-enabled for connection to future applications. With an included fitted foam carrying case and user manual you have all the tools you need to measure grip strength.
To learn more about the Baseline BIMS Digital 5-Position Pinch Dynamometer, click here.
Article Written By Eric Trauber, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, FAAOMPT
References:
- Roman-Liu D. Analysis of maximum force of tip pinch, lateral pinch, and palmer pinch in relation to maximum handgrip force. Biology of Sport, 2003, 20:303-319.
- OpenStax College 1999, Intrinsic Muscles of the Hand, digital image, Rice University, accessed on May 25th, 2022, Retrieved from https://cnx.org/contents/FPtK1zmh@6.15:fEI3C8Ot@5/Preface.