Effect of Shoulder Flexion on Grip Strength Measurement

Grip strength is commonly used to evaluate the integrated performance of muscles by determining maximal grip force that can be produced in one muscular contraction. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of different shoulder positions on grip strength measurement in healthy individuals. Sample: 50 healthy subjects were included (19 males 31 females).

Grip strength in 5 different position of shoulder flexion with elbow extension was measure with the help of Jamar dynamometer.

Repeated measure ANOVA and post hoc analysis was done (α=5%, p=.05).

The mean grip strength in 0° flexion (64.6±2.86 lb/inch2), 45° flexion (63.82±2.92 lb/inch2), 90° flexion (66.86±3.06 lb/inch2), 135° flexion (66.17±3.05 lb/inch2) and 180° flexion (67.82±2.92 lb/ inch2). Repeated measure ANOVA showed significant differences for grip strength in 5 positions (p=.0001). Post hoc comparison by bonferroni showed that there is significant difference between 0° versus 180° (p=.048), 45° versus 90° (p=.0001), 45° versus 180° (p=.0001).

The study concluded that shoulder has an effect on grip strength and maximum grip strength can be obtained in 180° of shoulder flexion with elbow extension.