The effect of upper-extremity posture on maximum grip strength

Effect of Elbow Flexion, Forearm Rotation and Upper Arm Abduction on MVC Grip and Grip Endurance Time

“…Coury et al studied shoulder abduction strength in various body postures and observed that discomfort, pain and decrease in grip strength at different postures of the elbow and shoulder flexion, a combination of shoulder at abduction 0°, elbow at 135° and wrist at neutral (i.e., no radial/ulnar deviation and also no flexion/extension) produced the greatest amount of forces among all combinations of postures [15]. Kattel, Fredericks, Fernandez, et al found that shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, wrist flexion and ulnar deviation significantly affected output grip force [1]. Researchers consistently indicated that significant deviations of the wrist from neutral decreased grip strength [1,21,22].…”

“…Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are recognized as the most common occupational problems in industries [1]. WMSDs include a wide range of inflammatory and degenerative diseases and disorders, which can result in impairment.…”

Estimating upper limb discomfort level due to intermittent isometric pronation torque with various combinations of elbow angles, forearm rotation angles, force and frequency with upper arm at 90° abduction

“…Pressure on the median nerve of the hand has been reported to be one of the many factors causing WMSDs in industry (Kattel et al 1996). In this regard Kleinrensink et al (1995) studied the median nerve tension in three areas (axial, pronator teres muscle and the radial bone) at 90 0 upper arm abduction and at different elbow and forearm rotation angles.…”

“…Upper arm abduction was not included in the study. Kattel et al (1996) reported that the maximum grip strength occurred with the upper arm at 0 0 upper arm abduction, 135 0 elbow flexion, and neutral wrist. Coury et al (1998b) studied the shoulder adduction strength in various body postures and observed discomfort, pain, and a reduction in grip strength at different postures of the elbow and shoulder flexion, but they did not look at upper arm abduction effects.…”

“…Work-related Musculo-Skeletal Disorders (WMSDs) are among the most publicised occupational health problems in industry (Kattel et al 1996). Wiker et al (1989) found that workplace layout, product design or hand-tool design often force workers to adopt awkward postures for long periods and these have been identified as causative factors for WMSDs.…”