Normative Values for Pinch Strength—Relationship With Joint Hypermobility as Measured With the Beighton Criteria

PURPOSE: This study aimed to determine normative ranges of static pinch strength as measured with a spring gauge in adults of working age and investigate whether pinch strength is associated with hand hypermobility. A secondary aim was to explore whether the Beighton criteria for hypermobility are associated with hypermobility in joints of the hand during forceful pinching. METHODS: A convenience sample of healthy men and women aged 18–65 years were recruited for measurement of lateral pinch, 2-point pinch, 3-point pinch, and joint hypermobility according to the Beighton criteria. Regression analysis was used to determine the effect of age, sex, and hypermobility on pinch strength. RESULTS: Two hundred and fifty men and 270 women participated in this study. Men were stronger than women at all ages. Lateral and 3-point pinch were greatest for all participants and 2-point pinch was the least strong. There were no statistically significant differences between age groups, but a trend for the lowest pinch strength to occur before the mid-thirties was seen in both sexes. Thirty-eight percent of women and 19% of men were hypermobile; however, these participants statistically insignificant differ in pinch strength compared with other participants. The Beighton criteria corresponded strongly with hypermobility in other joints of the hand as observed and photographed during pinch. Hand dominance did not show clear relationships with pinch strength. CONCLUSIONS: Normative lateral, 2-point, and 3-point pinch strength data for adults of working age are presented with men having greatest pinch strength at all ages. The Beighton criteria for hypermobility are associated with hypermobility in other joints of the hand. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Benign joint hypermobility is not related to pinch strength. Men have greater pinch strength at all ages than women.