Comparison of Wrist Motion and Grip Strength between Normal Caucasian, Southern Chinese and Japanese Populations

Abstract

Background: Differences in structure and function of the hand and wrist between distinct populations affect our approach to treatment, expectations and functional outcomes. The aim of this study is to compare wrist motion and grip strength in Caucasian, Chinese and Japanese populations. Methods: A total of 424 normal wrists were evaluated that included 99 Japanese, 139 Caucasian and 186 Southern Chinese. Demographic information collected included age, gender, hand dominance and occupation. Evaluation included measurement of active motion and grip strength. Motion was measured using a goniometer. Grip strength was evaluated using a JAMAR dynamometer. Demographic information and evaluation was compared among the three cohorts using statistical tests. Multivariate mixed-effect model was further used to assess the racial impact on each evaluation controlling for demographic factors as well as two-hand measurements of everyone. Results: There was no difference in global wrist motion between the cohorts. We did find significant differences between the cohorts in all discrete measurements. Conclusions: Differences in wrist motion and grip strength between normal Japanese, Chinese and Caucasian populations may be due to bony structure rather than soft tissue properties. Knowledge of these disparities can provide references for personalised wrist examination, diagnosis, treatment and comparison of outcomes between different cohorts. Level of Evidence: Level III (Diagnostic)