An Attempt to Identify Meaningful Descriptors of Handgrip Strength Using a Novel Prototype: Preliminary Study

Abstract

Handgrip strength (HGS) is an indicator of muscle condition and general health wellbeing. Usually, instruments measuring handgrip strength only identify its maximum value. This preliminary study is focused on identifying force vs. time parameters which could contribute to better describe individual strength. They were obtained during a Handgrip strength test of 15 s in a sample group of 94 university students. The tests were conducted with a smart multifunction novel prototype dynamometer, named BodyGrip. Mean values of quantities related to the ability to develop and to maintain strength in percentage of maximum handgrip strength, were extracted from the force vs time profile. Contrary to maximum HGS, such quantities were found to be independent of the participant’s anthropometric characteristics. Individual comparisons based on those quantities are therefore not affected by the anthropometric characteristics. It was possible to identify individuals, differing on the development of HGS. Results suggest that the functionality of the BodyGrip tool enables a more thorough characterization of the time profile of the Handgrip strength that might influence the knowledge of the muscle functions, such as power development and endurance.

Longitudinal Associations Between Household Solid Fuel Use and Handgrip Strength in Middle-Aged and Older Chinese Individuals: The China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study

“…The ambient concentration of PM2.5 was at the city-level but not individual-level because of lack of detailed address. Finally, we used traditional approach to evaluate HGS, new indicators (such as smart multifunction novel prototype dynamometer, named BodyGrip) ( 29 ) should be considered in future studies.…”

Portable Digital Monitoring System for Sarcopenia Screening and Diagnosis

“…The handgrip strength evaluation method follows the Southampton protocol [ 13 ]—participant seated with forearms on the armrests; wrists in a neutral position with thumbs facing upwards; vocal encouragement: “I want you to squeeze as hard as you can for as long as you can until I say stop: squeeze, squeeze, squeeze, stop”; 3 trials in each hand (alternating sides); maximal grip score used—using the Gripwise device instead of the Jamar hydraulic hand dynamometer. Gripwise—a small, light, and portable wireless device—has been developed to accurately measure handgrip strength via BLE communication, with good sensitivity, resolution and precision (for technical details, please see reference [ 31 ]), and has already been validated against the Jamar [ 32 ] (commonly considered the gold standard device for handgrip strength evaluation). The five-repetition sit-to-stand test evaluation method follows the commonly used protocol [ 33 ] in which participants sit on the edge of an armless chair with arms crossed against their chest and with hips, knees, and ankle joints at approximately 90 degrees.…”