Hand strengthening is measured by using a tool called a goniometer. It will measure strength in pounds or kilograms. Each measure is done both on the left and right hand and repeated 3x. The patient can then be compared to themself; left vs right hand. Where the dominant hand is the same as the non dominant hand or 10% stronger than the nondominant hand. This is the normative value when comparing the left versus right hand of the patient. If this measure is great or less than the 0-10% one can be measured next to a standardized measure called normalized grip strength. These values can help you learn if your patient’s grip strength is within normal ranges for their age, sex and sometimes even condition.Â
How can we normalize a patient’s grip strength?
This can be done in many different ways. The simple way to to begin doing eccentric wrist curls and reverse curls. This will really help to balance the forearm flexors and extensors.
Ball squeezes can also be done but a very important note: DO NOT go to 100% power. People tend to over do hand exercises, I always tell my patient no more than 80% power when doing ball squeezes and only 100x max a day. Overdoing these can cause other issues in the hand.
Other exercises such as push ups, farmers carries, biceps and triceps strengthening can also help to improve grip strength. Remember that grip strength takes 4-6 weeks to see improvement. Be patient and keep strengthening!
