Muscle strength: clinical and prognostic value of hand-grip dynamometry.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Grip strength measured by dynamometry is well established as an indicator of muscle status, particularly among older adults. This review was undertaken to provide a synopsis of recent literature addressing the clinical and prognostic value of hand-grip dynamometry.

RECENT FINDINGS

Numerous large-scale normative grip strength projects have been published lately. Other recent studies have reinforced the concurrent relationship of grip strength with measures of nutritional status or muscle mass and measures of function and health status. Studies published in the past few years have confirmed the value of grip strength as a predictor of mortality, hospital length of stay, and physical functioning.

SUMMARY

As a whole, the recent literature supports the use of hand-grip dynamometry as a fundamental element of the physical examination of patients, particularly if they are older adults.