TO DETERMINE THE MEASUREMENT OF THE ISOMETRIC HAND GRIP STRENGTH IN SCHOOL AGED CHILDREN USING HAND DYNAMOMETER.

Abstract

Background:
Hand grip strength (HGS) is a reliable and non-invasive indicator of overall muscle function and physical development in children. It plays a crucial role in daily activities, coordination, and general motor performance. Evaluating HGS in pediatric populations helps identify developmental delays, monitor nutritional status, and predict future health outcomes. Standardized assessment using tools such as the Jamar dynamometer provides valuable data for clinical and educational applications.

Objective:
To measure isometric hand grip strength among school-aged children and assess its association with age, sex, hand dominance, and anthropometric variables.

Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted at Division Public School, Lahore, over a period of six months. A total of 177 healthy children aged 5 to 10 years were selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Both boys and girls were included. Children with congenital abnormalities, history of fracture, or hand injuries were excluded. Hand grip strength was assessed using the Jamar digital hand grip dynamometer in the standard seated position with the elbow flexed at 90°. Each child performed three maximal voluntary contractions on both dominant and non-dominant hands, and the average score was recorded. Anthropometric data including height, weight, and BMI were also collected. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25, with descriptive and inferential statistics applied.

Results:
Of the 177 participants, 96 (54.2%) were females and 81 (45.8%) were males. The mean grip strength in the dominant hand was 13.93 ± 5.66 kg, while in the non-dominant hand it was 12.91 ± 13.76 kg. Right-hand dominance was observed in 74% of the participants. Males exhibited significantly higher grip strength than females (p < 0.05). A positive association was observed between grip strength and age, height, weight, and BMI.

Conclusion:
The findings demonstrate that hand grip strength is higher in boys than girls and greater in the dominant hand. Age, body size, and BMI significantly influence HGS. These insights highlight the importance of using HGS as a simple and effective tool for assessing pediatric physical development.