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Functional outcome after the Moberg advancement flap in the thumb.

A Moberg palmar advancement flap was performed for pulp reconstruction of the thumb in 36 cases. No flap was lost. Eighty-three percent of the defects were closed without additional iatrogenic bony shortening of the thumb. Sensory testing showed normal sensitivity in 74% of the 25 patients studied at a mean of 27 months. Minor restrictions in the active range of motion in the interphalangeal joint were mainly attributable to a loss of hyperextension. No thumb showed a permanent flexion contracture. The flap alone did not result in a reduction in grip strength, but an additional bony amputation resulted in decreased strength of 3-point pinch grip. Seventy-two percent of the patients had no or only mild subjective complaints. The Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand questionnaire, which was used for the first time as a standardized measure to assess functional outcome after this procedure, showed only minor impairment levels (12.4 +/-). Based on these data, the Moberg advancement flap remains the procedure of choice for covering defects of the distal palmar thumb.

Adolescent↗

Interfering effects of the task demands of grip force and mental processing on isometric shoulder strength and muscle activity.

The purpose of this study was to examine the interfering effects of physical and mental tasks on shoulder isometric strength in different postures. Fifteen volunteers (seven women, eight men) performed a series of isometric shoulder exertions at 30 degrees , 60 degrees and 90 degrees of both shoulder flexion and abduction alone and with the addition of a 30% grip force, a mental task (Stroop test) and both additional tasks simultaneously. The shoulder tasks were completed either at maximal intensity, or while maintaining a shoulder posture without any additional effort. Surface electromyography (EMG) from seven muscles of the shoulder girdle and shoulder moment were collected for each 6 s shoulder exertion. When normalized to maximum exertion, no differences were found between genders and no differences existed between conditions when subjects maintained each posture without exerted force. In the maximal shoulder exertion trials, an increase in shoulder angle (in either plane) resulted in an increase in EMG in most muscles, while shoulder moment decreased in flexion and remained constant in abduction. Shoulder moments and muscle activation were greatest in the shoulder exertion alone condition followed by adding a 30% grip and the Stroop test, with the addition of both tasks further reducing the exerted shoulder moment and EMG. However, muscle activity did not always decrease with shoulder strength and remained elevated, indicating a complex coactivation pattern produced by an interfering role of the tasks. Overall, it was found that a mental task can have the same or greater effect as a concurrent grip and should be considered when assessing muscular loading in the workplace, as typical biomechanical modelling may underestimate internal loads. The results not only provide valuable shoulder strength data but also practical strength values, depending on additional tasks.

Adult↗

Changes in muscle strength in women following the menopause: a longitudinal assessment of the efficacy of hormone replacement therapy.

The effects of hormone deficiency at the menopause on muscle strength was examined in 10 healthy middle-aged women (1-3 years post-menopause) in a longitudinal trial over 39 weeks. Performance was compared with that of age-matched females (n=11) taking a course of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Muscle strength of the quadriceps was measured isometrically at 90 degrees of knee flexion and at angular velocities of 1.05, 2.09 and 3.13 rad/s using an isokinetic dynamometer. Hand grip strength was assessed by means of a portable dynamometer. Measurements were taken every 13 weeks for 39 weeks. Significant decreases in isometric strength (-10%) and dynamic leg strength at 1.05 rad/s (-9%) were found in the post-menopausal women over 39 weeks. There was no change in strength in the HRT group. There were also no changes in leg strength at higher angular velocities or in grip strength for either the post-menopausal group or those taking HRT. While HRT preserved muscle strength, there was no evidence of a strengthening effect on skeletal muscle within this short period of treatment. A rapid loss of leg strength occurs post-menopausally in hormone-depleted women. HRT may offer protection against muscle weakness, although the hormone responsible for regulating strength is not evident using this model.

Exercise↗

Muscle strength according to level of physical exercise and educational background in middle-aged women in Finland.

The aim of this study was to examine the role of socio-economic status and the practice of physical exercise in explaining variation in muscle strength in 50 to 60-year-old women. Consequently, four study groups combining education and physical activity were formed: (1) university education, physically active; (2) university education, sedentary; (3) vocational or lower level of education, physically active; (4) vocational or lower level of education, sedentary. Maximal isometric strength of hand grip, arm flexion, body flexion and extension as well as dynamic power of the abdominal muscles were measured in 112 women. The results of the maximal isometric strength measurements were standardised by body mass index. The means of the maximal isometric strength results and sit-up tests were compared between the groups using two-way analysis of variance. The physically active women performed better than the sedentary in both the isometric and dynamic tests. Greater muscle strength was also found among the more highly educated compared with the less educated. The less educated sedentary women showed the poorest performance in the strength tests.

Body Height↗

A physical fitness program for health professionals and students.

During the last decades, there have been an increasing interest in exercise as a tool for maintaining good health status. The goal of this study was to measure physiologic response to exercise and level of fitness before and after 8 weeks exercise training program, three sessions per week. The participants, a group of fourteen male employees and students at the Medical Sciences Campus, U.P.R. School of Medicine, followed an exercise prescription which included a warm up session (5-10 mins), aerobic training for 20 minutes at intensity of 60-80% of heart rate maximum, progressive resistive strength training and cool down period (5-10 mins.). They evidenced decrease in resting heart rate and resting systolic blood pressure, improvement in estimated aerobic capacity, increase in hand grip strength and decrease in percent of body fat. These results were found to be in accordance with reviewed literature.

Adult↗

Effect of starvation and elective surgery on hand dynamometry and circulating concentration of various proteins.

The effect of 4 days total starvation (water only) in five normal subjects on the circulating concentrations of various proteins was studied. Changes in plasma albumin and total protein concentrations were compared with those of six patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery with partial starvation and six patients undergoing orthopaedic surgery with adequate feeding - (0.126-0.146 MJ/kg/day and 1.2-1.4 g protein/kg/day). In a companion study hand grip strength was measured daily in ten normal subjects during starvation and in 18 patients undergoing surgery for hernia repair (n = 6), cholecystectomy (n = 6) and major abdominal surgery (n = 6). Starvation produced marked reductions (approximately 30%) in the circulating concentrations of retinol binding protein and prealbumin but did not significantly affect the plasma concentration of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM) acute phase reactants (orosomucoid, haptoglobin, alpha(1) antitrypsin), albumin and total protein. On the other hand both types of elective surgery produced significant reductions in plasma albumin and total protein concentrations irrespective of feeding. Grip strength was not significantly altered by four days of starvation but surgery produced a temporary reduction in grip strength, the extent and duration of which was related to the severity of operation. This study helps to separate the effect of surgery and starvation on hand dynamometry and circulating protein concentrations and indicates their limitations as indicators of nutritional state.

Journal Article↗

Isometric pull-push strengths in workspace: 1. Strength profiles.

The isometric pull and push strength profiles of males and females were determined in seated and standing positions in the workspace. The strongest pull strength location was at extreme reach vertically above the shoulder for both males and females. The greatest pull strength of 400 Newtons (N) for males was recorded in the seated and standing positions. Females' pull strengths in the seated and standing positions were 222 and 244 N, respectively. The strongest push strength was always at the maximum reach at the overhead location. Males' maximum push strength was 227 N in the seated position and 251 N in the standing position. Females' maximum push strength was 96 N in the seated position and 140 N in the standing position. On the average the strength in the standing position was 79% of the seated position. The push strength was 71% of the pull strength and females were 56% as strong as males.

Adult↗

Non-union fractures of the scaphoid and carpal bones in children: surgical treatment.

Carpal bone fractures in children are rare. This study reports a series of 16 cases: 12 fractures of the scaphoid (11 non-union), two of the trapezium, one (non-union) of the hamatum, and one of the triquetrum. Only three of these fractures (triquetrum, trapezium and hamatum) were seen at an early stage. The non-union cases involving the scaphoid and hamatum were treated by bone graft. The scaphoid fracture seen early and the triquetrum fracture were treated orthopaedically. One trapezium fracture was treated by osteosynthesis with wires, and the other (seen at the defective callus stage) was not treated because of a total absence of symptomatology. All fractures or non-union cases consolidated. After a minimum follow-up of 1 year, all patients except one have regained strength and mobility comparable to that of the contralateral limb, with a near total absence of pain. Only the patient with an articular fracture of the trapezium has lost 30% of strength compared with the uninjured limb.

Adolescent↗

Handgrip strength, pulmonary function tests, and pulmonary muscle strength in fibromyalgia syndrome: is there any relationship?

OBJECTIVE: It has been reported that patients with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) have lower maximal respiratory pressures than healthy subjects, indicating reduced pulmonary muscle strength. It has also been reported that patients with FMS have reduced grip strength. In this study, we aimed to examine the possible relationship between handgrip strength as a determinant of peripheral muscle strength and pulmonary muscle strength in patients with FMS by comparing them with healthy controls. METHODS: Forty-one consecutive women with FMS (diagnosed according to the American College of Rheumatology 1990 criteria) were compared with 40 age- and body mass index-matched healthy female controls. Pulmonary function tests were assessed by spirometry. Maximal pulmonary pressures were evaluated using an oral pressure meter. A dyspnea score was obtained. Pain was scored according to visual analogue scale and chest pain was classified (0-9) in fibromyalgia patients. Chest expansion was also measured in the two groups. Tender points were also evaluated in FMS patients. Grip strength (Jamar handheld dynamometer) was also measured in the two groups. RESULTS: The difference in pulmonary function tests was not statistically significant between groups. Maximal respiratory pressures (maximum inspiratory pressure and maximum expiratory pressure) and endurance (maximum ventilatory volume) were significantly lower in patients with FMS than in controls. There was also a statistically significant difference between groups regarding grip strength. There was also significant correlation between maximal inspiratory pressure and maximal expiratory pressure values and handgrip strength in patients with FMS. CONCLUSION: These data indicate that handgrip strength may be a determinant of pulmonary muscle strength in fibromyalgia patients.

Adult↗

Development of muscle strength in relation to training level and testosterone in young male soccer players.

Isometric and functional strength of ninety-eight 11-yr-old male soccer players at an elite (E) and nonelite (NE) level were determined (3-4 times) through a 2-yr period, and the changes were related to growth and maturation. The initial isometric strength for extension with dominant leg [1,502 +/- 35 (E) vs. 1,309 +/- 39 (NE) N], extension with nondominant leg (1,438 +/- 37 vs. 1,267 +/- 45 N), extension with both legs (2,113 +/- 76 vs. 1,915 +/- 72 N), back muscles (487 +/- 11 vs. 414 +/- 10 N), abdominal muscles (320 +/- 9 vs. 294 +/- 8 N), and handgrip (304 +/- 10 vs. 259 +/- 8 N) increased by 15-40% during the period. Broad jump increased (P < 0. 05) by 15 (E) and 10% (NE). The E players had higher (P < 0.05) initial isometric strength and broad jump performance compared with NE players, and differences were maintained throughout the period (multiple ANOVA for repeated measures) also when adjustment was made for age, dimensions, testosterone, and insulin-like growth factor I (generalized estimating equations analyses). The development of strength for both E and NE players together was significantly (P < 0. 001) related to changes in serum testosterone concentrations. The present data indicate that testosterone is important for development of strength in young boys and that, independent of serum testosterone concentration, E players have developed greater muscle strength compared with NE players.

Adolescent↗

Color or brightness effects on grip strength?

Research into the effects of color on grip strength has produced inconsistent results, but studies show methodological problems, for example, the non-standardised reporting of stimulus colours, differing intertrial rests, and the neglect of warm-up effects. The present study was designed to replicate the 1989 work by Hasson, et al. and also to examine potential brightness effects of stimuli on grip strength. Analysis indicated brightness effects might confound potential to produce Type I errors.

Color Perception↗

Impact of anthropometric and personal variables on grip strength.

This paper presents the results of a study to evaluate the effects of personal and anthropometric variables on grip strength. Weight, height, frame size, and Fat-Free Cross-Sectional Area (FFCSA) were the anthropometric variables included in the study. Sex and the amount of exercise were the personal variables included. A group of 33 female and 59 male students were used as subjects. A stepwise regression analysis was performed to find a model which can be used to predict grip strength. It was found that the sex and weight are two variables which account for maximum variation in grip strength among these variables. Although, FFCSA (r2 = 0.788) correlated strongly with grip strength but was not chosen in the model, possibly because of lower correlation between FFCSA and sex. Height and weight also seem to correlate with grip strength, but to a lesser extent.

Adult↗

Grip strength testing using the BTE work simulator and the Jamar dynamometer: a comparative study. Baltimore Therapeutic Equipment.

This study compared the results obtained from testing grip strength using the hydraulic Jamar dynamometer and the BTE Work Simulator. The grip strength of 14 adults was assessed with the Jamar at 90 degrees elbow flexion, Jamar at 45 degrees elbow flexion, and the BTE using the manufacturers recommended position. Greater strength measurements were generated with the elbow at 90 degrees rather than 45 degrees on the Jamar. The Jamar measurements at 90 degrees of elbow flexion were not significantly different from the BTE work simulator values. Intraclass correlation coefficients between the Jamar at 90 degrees and the BTE work simulator values were excellent. This study demonstrated that the results obtained from the BTE work simulator and the Jamar dynamometer are comparable. These findings validate the use of the BTE work simulator for grip strength testing.

Adult↗

Sport-seasonal changes in body composition, growth, power and strength of adolescent wrestlers.

Changes in body composition, somatic growth, power and strength of high school wrestlers (W, n = 8, 15.9 +/- 0.3 yrs) and controls (C, n = 6, 16.1 +/- 0.2 yrs) were studied early, mid-, late-, and 3.5-months post-season. Elbow flexion peak power (FPP), peak torque (FPT), extension peak power (EPP), and peak torque (EPT) were measured on an isokinetic dynamometer. C demonstrated normal rates of somatic growth and gains in strength and power. However, for W, significant (p < 0.05) decreases were found in: weight (WT, 61.6 +/- 2.8 to 59.2 +/- 2.8 kg), relative fat (%BF) (7.8 +/- 0.7 to 6.1 +/- 0.7 %), FPT (33.3 +/- 2.3 to 29.9 +/- 2.7 Nm), FPP (125.8 +/- 0.3 to 107.8 +/- 8.4 W), EPT (37.5 +/- 2.5 to 36.2 +/- 3.8 Nm), and EPP (132.7 +/- 8.4 to 126.7 +/- 12.3 W), between early-season and late-season and significant increases in WT (5.4 +/- 0.4 kg), fat-free mass (FFM, 4.4 +/- 0.7 kg), FPT (9.4 +/- 1.7 Nm), FPP (38.8 +/- 8.8 W), EPT (6.5 +/- 1.0 Nm), and EPP (24.4 +/- 4.7 W), between late-season and post-season. Compared to C, W had significantly (p < 0.05) smaller increases in mid-arm girth and flexed mid-arm cross-sectional muscle area (X-SECT) during the wrestling season and larger increases in shoulder girth, abdominal girth, and mid-arm girth, X-SECT, and biacromial, biilium, and anterior-posterior chest breadths during the post-season. Power and strength measures were significantly correlated with FFM, lean upper limb volume (ULV), and X-SECT (r = 0.74 to 0.93, p <0.0001). When covaried for FFM, ULV or X-SECT seasonal declines in strength and power were no longer significant while post-seasonal increases remained. In conclusion, pre- to late- season W demonstrated a lack of lean tissue accretion and reductions in strength. At post-season these variables returned to, or were above, pre-season levels. Results of analysis of covariance indicated that lean tissue changes were associated with the changes in strength and power.

Adolescent↗

Isometric pull-push strengths in workspace: 2. Analysis of spatial factors.

The effect of reach levels, horizontal angles and vertical angles on isometric pull and push strengths of males and females in standing and seated positions was determined. The effect of reach levels on strength varied as a consequence of force direction, working position and gender. Reach level has a significant effect on women's pull strength in the seated position and on push strength in the standing position. The strength value was significantly greater in the extreme reach than in maximum or normal reach. Vertical angle phi had a significant effect on strength consistently in all cases. Strength values increased significantly with the increase of phi angles from 0 degrees to 45 degrees to 90 degrees. The horizontal angle theta had a significant influence only on the pull strength of standing and seated men and standing women (not seated woman). The maximum strength was significantly greater at theta = 90 degrees.

Adult↗

Reduction of complication rate at radial forearm flap donor sites.

The radial forearm flap has become a versatile tissue transfer in head and neck surgery, especially in the reconstruction of the pharynx and oral cavity. Still, many surgeons avoid its application because of the possible donor site complications. In 29 of 51 patients who were operated between July 1987 and April 1990 at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology in Tübingen, we evaluated the function and aesthetic appearance of the radial forearm donor site after surgery. We found a much lower complication rate compared to some reports in the literature. With a questionnaire, the patients were asked how they judged the function and appearance of the forearm donor site. Further tests were made to detect a possible reduced mobility of the hand, and to measure the strength of the hand. Postoperative complications and their management as well as our concept of dealing with the radial forearm flap donor site to minimize complications are discussed.

Consumer Behavior↗