Examining hand dominance using dynamometric grip strength testing as evidence for overwork weakness in Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

This systematic review with a meta-analysis of studies was carried out to evaluate the potential of overwork weakness on the basis of grip strength of dominant and nondominant hands in individuals with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT). Numerous electronic databases were searched from the earliest records to February 2016. Studies of any design including participants older than 18 years of age with a confirmed diagnosis of CMT that measured grip strength of both hands using dynamometric testing were eligible for inclusion. Of 12 593 articles identified following removal of duplicates, five articles fulfilled the criteria. A total of 166 participants, mostly with CMT1 or CMT2, were described from the studies included. Hand and finger pinch grip strength for the dominant compared with the nondominant hand was not statistically different. There is no definitive evidence that preferential use of the dominant hand in CMT impairs function relative to the nondominant hand. Thus, robust exercise trials of progressive resistance training are needed to understand the extent of adaptations possible and provide evidence of the safety of such regimens.

Knee extension strength and handgrip strength are important predictors of Timed Up and Go test performance among community-dwelling elderly women: a cross-sectional study

“…strength. These include grip size, 15 dominance, 16 genetic factors and anthropometric variables. 17,18 Martien et al 19 investigated whether knee extension strength is a better predictor of functional performance than handgrip strength.…”

Allometric normalization of handgrip strength in older adults: Which body size parameter is the most appropriate?

“…Each participant conducted the measurement three times (with a 60 s rest interval between attempts to avoid fatigue) with the non-dominant hand [ 23 ]. Previous meta-analysis has shown no significant differences and trivial effect sizes between the dominant and the non-dominant hand [ 24 ]. Out of three measurements, the best one was recorded and used in further analyses [ 14 ].…”

Testing overwork weakness in Charcot‐Marie‐tooth disease: Is it true or false?

“…8 Indeed, both strength measurements showed controversial results, some authors reporting that the non-dominant hand (NDH) is stronger than dominant hand (DH) [9][10][11][12] and other authors stating that DH and NDH have similar strength. 1,11,13 Those who affirm that OW is not present because of both hands are similar, ignore in their discussions the 10% rule. This old rule establishes that grip strength in normal subjects is approximately 10% greater in the DH than in the NDH 14 and this is used by physical therapists as a general guide to set patients goals.…”

“…In literature, strength is evaluated by Medical Research Council (MRC, or by a dynamometer . Indeed, both strength measurements showed controversial results, some authors reporting that the non‐dominant hand (NDH) is stronger than dominant hand (DH) and other authors stating that DH and NDH have similar strength . Those who affirm that OW is not present because of both hands are similar, ignore in their discussions the 10% rule.…”