Comparison of grip and pinch strength in young women with and without hyperkyphosis: A cross-sectional study

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Kordi Yoosefinejad, Amin^{a; b} | Ghaffarinejad, Farahnaz^{a; b} | Hemati, Mahbubeh^{a; *} | Jamshidi, Narges^a

Affiliations: [a] Physical Therapy Department, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran | [b] Rehabilitation Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Mahbubeh Hemati, Physical Therapy Department, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Chamran Blvd, Sheikh Abivardi 1, Shiraz 33669-71947, Iran. Tel.: +98 71 36261081; E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Hyperkyphosis is a common postural defect with high prevalence in the 20 to 50 year old population. It appears to compromise proximal scapular stability. Grip and pinch strength are used to evaluate general upper extremity function. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare pinch and grip strength between young women with and without hyperkyphosis. METHODS: Thirty young women (18–40 years old) with hyperkyphosis and 30 healthy women matched for age and body mass index participated in the study. Hyperkyphosis was confirmed by measuring the kyphosis angle with a flexible ruler. Grip strength was measured with the Waisa method and a dynamometer. Pinch strength was assessed with a pinch meter. RESULTS: Grip (P= 0.03) and pinch strength (P= 0.04) were significantly lower in women with hyperkyphosis compared to the control group. Kyphosis angle correlated weakly with grip (r= 0.26) and pinch strength (r= 0.23). CONCLUSIONS: Hyperkyphotic posture has led to decreased grip and pinch strength compared to people without hyperkyphosis.

Keywords: Kyphosis, grip, pinch, strength, flexible ruler

DOI: 10.3233/BMR-170932

Journal: Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 21-26, 2019