Grip Strength
Grip Strength
Grip strength is an important indicator of your overall health. It is an indication of our muscle strength and is necessary to perform our daily activities. Opening bottles, turning handles, lifting and carrying objects, and feeding are just a few examples of what we need our grip strength for every day. Weak grip strength not only signifies decreased muscle strength, but also can indicate higher risk of falls, stroke, heart attack, and even lung capacity.
Evidence-Based Research
"Grip strength among community-dwelling men and women is associated with risk of hospital admission over the following decade" (Simmonds, S.J., et al. (2015). Grip strength among community-dwelling older people predicts hospital admission during the following decade. Age and Ageing, 44(6), 954-959. doi: 10.1093/ageing/afv146
Evaluation
One of the first things I test in my client’s is his/her grip strength. I measure grip strength with a hand dynamometer at time of evaluation and frequently throughout the duration of treatment. I also ask my clients if they have difficulty handling objects and if they drop items frequently.
Skilled Care
In order to document skilled care, it is important to link function to your goals. “Client will improve grip strength to 42lb in order to…”
- Weight bear on walker
- Hold and manipulate utensils for self feeding
- Hold toothbrush while grooming at sink
- Carry and retrieve laundry
- Manage medications
What are some exercises you can do to work on grip strength?
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