Study of Hand Grip Strength in Indian Population.

Background and Purpose: Hand grip strength is a major component of hand function. Although reference values are available from western populations, it would not be appropriate to apply them for Indian population due to the variation in geographical, genetic, nutritional, social and cultural factors. The main objective of this present study was to generate reference values for grip strength in a healthy Indian population. Methodology: Grip strength was measured using Jamar dynamometer according to the norms provided by ASHT (American society of hand therapists) in the age group of 21 to 80 years healthy Indian participants. Results & Conclusion: This present study generated normative values of hand grip according to gender and different age groups for Indian population. The gender difference in grip strength was statistically significant with higher grip strength found in males than females. Also, it was noted that grip strength greater in dominant hand than non-dominant hand. There was an inverse relationship between age and grip strength.