Relationship between the adjustability of grasping force and upper limb/hand function evaluation in individuals with cerebrovascular disorders: a preliminary cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Activities of daily living, including grasping, holding, and pinching, are essential for daily living. However, these activities often become difficult in individuals with cerebrovascular disease owing to motor paralysis of the upper limbs and fingers caused by damage to the cerebral hemisphere. We hypothesized a relationship between adjustability of grasping force (AGF) and upper limb/hand functional assessment and aimed to clarify this relationship in individuals with cerebrovascular disorders. Methods This preliminary cross-sectional study included 12 individuals with cerebrovascular disorders assessed using the AGF, Fugl–Meyer assessment (FMA), simple test for evaluating hand function (STEF), action research arm test (ARAT), and motor activity log (MAL). Partial Spearman's rank correlation analysis was performed with adjustment for age. Results We observed a significant positive correlation between AGF (isometric section) on the unaffected side and MAL (Quality of Movement). Furthermore, AGF (isometric section) on the unaffected side showed a negative correlation with ARAT on the unaffected side. Conclusions AGF on the unaffected side impacts the affected hand’s quality of use in activities of daily living. Therefore, evaluation and intervention strategies that consider both the affected side and AGF on the unaffected side in individuals with cerebrovascular disorders are required.