Grip Strength (Dynamometry) Special Test
Orthopedic Physical Examination & Clinical Assessment Guide
What is it used for?
- Objective measurement of overall hand function and weakness.
How to Perform
- Tool: Jamar Dynamometer.
- Position: Elbow flexed 90°, forearm neutral. Handle usually at position 2.
- Action: Patient squeezes as hard as possible. Average of 3 trials.
Interpretation of Results
- Bell Curve: Compare to normative data or contralateral side (10% difference is normal for dominance).
Clinical Context & Limitations
The Grip Strength (Dynamometry) should be considered as one component of a comprehensive musculoskeletal assessment. No single special test has perfect diagnostic accuracy; thus, clinical decision-making should integrate test results with patient-reported symptoms, mechanism of injury, functional impairment, and relevant imaging.
Clinicians should be aware of potential false-positive results in patients with pain sensitisation, muscle guarding, or poor relaxation. For the Wrist & Hand region, combining the Grip Strength (Dynamometry) with complementary examination tests significantly improves overall diagnostic confidence.
References
- Magee, D. J. (2021). Orthopedic Physical Assessment.
