Effect of elbow position on grip and key pinch strength

Abstract

Twenty-nine college women participated in a study to investigate the effect of elbow position on grip and key pinch strength evaluations. Standardized instructions and positioning were followed with the exception of the two elbow positions. The elbow was flexed to 90 degrees in one test condition and it was fully extended in the other. The results showed a significantly stronger grip strength measurement in the 90 degree elbow flexed position than in the fully extended position. For evaluation of key pinch strength, both hands were stronger in the elbow flexed position, but only the right hand was significantly stronger. This study supports the use of the elbow flexed position in standardized grip and key pinch evaluations.