The purpose of this study was to assess for differences in the amount of tip, lateral, and three-jaw-chuck pinch force generated when fingers are placed on the groove or bridge of a B&L pinch gauge. Thirty-six healthy volunteers (9 males, 27 females), ages 19-49, participated in the study. Using a quantitative crossover design, each participant pinched six times: one for each type of pinch with fingers placed on the groove and bridge.Although no significant differences were found, results revealed slightly higher threejaw-chuck and lateral pinch strength when fingers were placed on the groove, whereas tip pinch strength was slightly higher on the bridge. This study found that pinching on the bridge or groove may result in similar pinch strength measurements on a B&L pinch gauge. Based on these results, clinicians may guide clients to place fingers on either the bridge or groove during pinch strength assessment.
FINGER POSITION iv
AcknowledgementsThe researchers would like to recognize the following individuals for their contributions to this research project. Without their time, encouragement, patience, and assistance, this project would not have been possible. We would like to thank our committee chair,