Handgrip dynamometry as a parameter of functional evaluation of the upper extremity hemiparetic after stroke

Abstract

Muscle strength is the most important physical valence. It is likely that there is a correlation between handgrip strength and other tests for the upper extremity affected by stroke. The purpose of this study is to analyze the predictive value of handgrip dynamometry (HD) for upper limb recovery in stroke. Were studied 43 hemiparetic patients after stroke (60.7 years±12.1). Several tests (Hand moviment scale (HMS), Esthesiometry, Box and blocks test, 9 hole and peg test, Modified Ashworth scale and Barthel index) were related to HD. The results showed that there is good correlation of the HD with HMS and, by contrast, the tests of manual dexterity, the sensitivity and index of functional independence showed no significant values. The HD is a quick, easy and affordable test, and can be part of protocols for functional evaluation of upper extremity of hemiparetic patients by stroke.