Correlation of hand dynamometry with BMI and WHR in medical students

Abstract

Background: Hand grip strength is a non-invasive measure of physical health that is positively correlated with body fitness. The objective of this study was to determine the correlation between hand grip strength and anthropometric measures including waist hip ratio and body mass index in students. Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at Liaquat  National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi. Ninety0one 1st and 2nd year MBBS students meeting the criteriawere included. Weight, height, BMI, waist and hip circumferences and waist hip ratio were measured. Right and left handgrip strength was measured by standard techniques. Mean±SD was calculated, and independent sample t-test was used to compare the means of two groups. Pearson correlation coefficient was applied for hand grip vs BMI and WHR. Results: There were 32 (35%) male and 59 (65%) female students. Significant mean differences were found for height, weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, WHR, right hand grip and left hand grip in both genders. Significant and positive correlation was observed for right hand grip in male students with weight, BMI and waist hip ratio. In female students, no significant correlation was observed for right hand grip. Height showed significant and positive correlation with left hand grip in both genders while waist and hip circumference showed negative but significant correlation with left hand grip in males. Conclusion: Dominant handgrip strength had positive correlations with some variables.Some positive correlations with the variables carry practical application for the diagnosis and treatment of upper limb musculoskeletal deformities, talent identification and player selection.