Reference values and determinants for handgrip strength in healthy subjects

Summary Background & objectives To determine reference values and associated factors for handgrip strength among healthy adults. Methods Three hundred well nourished (SGA category A) subjects were studied, aged 18–90 years. Handgrip strength (HS) was determined using a hand dynamometer. Adductor pollicis muscle (APM) thickness and other anthropometric variables were also measured. Results were analyzed according to gender and age group. We carried out multiple linear regression in order to identify significant determinants of handgrip strength. Results HS is significantly associated with gender and decreases after age 60 years ( p R 2  = 0.71 and 0.70, for DHS and NDHS, respectively). This association remained significant after adjustment for other variables such as gender, age and body mass index. Conclusion Reference values are needed to allow the use of HS as a muscular function assessment tool. Values should be stratified by gender and age group. The combined use of HS and APM may be useful as a method for nutritional assessment.