Influences of Neck and/or Wrist Pain on Hand Grip Strength of Industrial Quality Proofing Workers

Bettina Wollesen, Julia Gräf*, Nils Schumacher, Gianluca Meyer, Matthias Wanstrath, Christian Feldhaus, Kerstin Luedtke, Klaus Mattes

*Corresponding author for this work

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the interaction between neck and/or wrist pain and hand grip strength (HGS) and to investigate factors (age, sex, neck disorders, and carpal tunnel syndrome) influencing the HGS of industrial quality proofing workers (N = 145). Methods: Standardized questionnaires [Neck Disability Index (NDI), Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire] were used to evaluate existing neck and/or wrist pain. HGS measurements were performed in different wrist positions. Results: Significant differences between participants with and without neck pain were found in different wrist positions, in neutral wrist position right [without neck pain (n = 48) 46.34 (43.39 – 49.30); with neck pain (n = 97) 38.46 (36.20 – 40.72), F(1,144) = 16.82, p < 0.001, ŋp2 = 0.11] and left [without neck pain 44.06 (41.19 – 46.94); with neck pain 37.36 (35.13 – 39.58), F(1,144) = 12.70, p < 0.001, ŋp2 = 0.08]. A significant difference between participants with and without wrist pain was found for neutral wrist position right [without wrist pain (n = 105) 42.53 (40.37 – 44.70); with wrist pain (n = 40) 37.24 (33.56 – 40.91), F(1,144) = 6.41, p = 0.01, ŋp2 = 0.04]. Regression analysis showed significant results especially for steps two (age and weight, NDI) and three (age and weight, NDI, Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire) for neutral position right (R2 = 0.355, R2 = 0.357, respectively). Conclusion: Neck pain has an impact on HGS but should be evaluated in consideration of age and sex.

Original languageEnglish
JournalSafety and Health at Work
ISSN2093-7911
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 06.07.2020

Funding

This study was funded by the German Trade Association Raw Materials and Chemical Industry with regard of the scientific concept. The authors would like to acknowledge the support for this study provided by the automotive supplier Continental AG with numerous locations.

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Influences of Neck and/or Wrist Pain on Hand Grip Strength of Industrial Quality Proofing Workers'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this