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Europa Medicophysica 2003 March;39(1):27-36

Copyright © 2003 EDIZIONI MINERVA MEDICA

language: English

Dynamometric and surface electromyographic analysis of the power grip

Saccavini M. ¹, Bizzarini E. ¹, Lipanje F. ¹, Pascolo P. B. ², Zampa A. ¹

¹ Functional Area of Biomechanics Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Institute ASS 4 “Medio Friuli”, Udine, Italy 2 Department of Engineering University of Udine, Udine, Italy

Aim. Setting reference parameters for the power grip in healthy subjects with the purpose of extending the analysis to study the complete function of the hand, also in pathology.
Methods. Thirty-four healthy, right-handed subjects (average age=23.88±4.22 years) were required to do: 1) alternated contractions at maximum frequency for 15 s; 2) alternated contractions with maximum strength for 15 s. All data were computer registered through an analogical/digital interface with the Acq Knowledge® software .
Results. Two patterns were identified: one characterised by 2 agonistic bursts and one antagonistic burst (“3-phase pattern”); the second, common in most subjects, consisted of one agonistic burst followed by the corresponding antagonistic burst.
Conclusions. There seemed to be a connection bet-ween the double burst pattern and the movement of the wrist. Such data could then be used to define the deficit and create suitable support splints.