Assessing Hand Grip Strength: A Study On Medical Laboratory Technicians

Abstract

Introduction: Evaluating hand grip strength plays a crucial role in the assessment of hand injuries. As hands undergo various physiological and anatomical changes with aging, the impact of these changes on hand function remains inadequately understood. This study aimed to investigate hand grip strength among medical laboratory technicians in India.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, involving 108 medical laboratory technicians aged between 20 and 50 years. Additionally, 38 control subjects were included from Mumbai and Kolkata. Hand grip strength was measured using the Jamar Hand Grip Dynamometer.

Results: The results revealed that hand grip strength increased up to the age of 40 years for males and 35 years for females among medical laboratory technicians. Subsequently, there was a gradual decline in grip strength. The primary factor contributing to this decline was aging, resulting in a reduction in muscle mass. Other contributing factors included a lack of physical activity, inappropriate work schedules, and the use of poorly designed tools. A significant difference in mean handgrip strength was observed between males and females in all age groups. Notably, the dominant hand exhibited significantly greater handgrip strength than the non-dominant hand for both males and females (p<0.05). Furthermore, a positive and significant correlation between age and grip strength in the dominant hand was identified (p<0.05).