Reliability analysis of isometric grip strength measurements of the hydraulic and isokinetic Dynamometers

Abstract

An important tool used to evaluate the upper limbs is the dynamometer, which allows the determination of the force through static muscular effort. This measure can be influenced by several factors and therefore, reliability and validity studies must be performed to ensure the reproducibility and applicability of the measurement of an instrument. Aim: to analyze the inter-instrument reliability of the isometric grip strenght between the digital and analogic dynamometers Jamar and the isokinetic Biodex model System 4, considering as Gold Standard the analog Jamar dynamometer. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional observational study will be performed with a sample of 30 to 50 healthy volunteers between 18 and 60 years old, of both genders. In order to perform isometric palmar grip strength, the Jamar dynamometer with hydraulic capture system, the digital display and the isokinetic Biodex System 4 in isometric contraction mode will be used. To characterize the sample, the Global Lateral Preference Inventory (IPLAG) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) will be applied. The test procedures will be conducted by only one trained evaluator to exclude the inter-rater variability, following all recommendations of the Brazilian Society of Hand Therapists to measure palmar grip strength. To analyze the data, the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC), 95% confidence intervals (CI) and Bland Altman graphics will be used, by SPSS software version 20.0, p<0,05.