Wrist ulnar/radial torque strength measurements among Iranian population: The effects of age, gender, Body Mass Index and hand dominance

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Data on the physical strength capabilities of users are essential for designing the safe and usable products. OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to characterise the wrist ulnar/radial (U/R) torque strength and individual strength differences among Iranian population. METHODS: The study was conducted among 769 (391 males, 378 females) participants aged 5-74 years in the northwest of Iran. Measurements were carried out with both dominant and non-dominant hands using a digital angle torque adaptor installed in a jar-shaped measuring unit. RESULTS: The results indicated that the mean wrist U/R torque strength exertion by females was 75% of that exerted by males. Strength exertion with the non-dominant hand was 8% lower than strength exertion of the dominant hand. A significant positive association was also found between the wrist U/R torque strength and body mass index. CONCLUSIONS: This additional information on the wrist torque strength can fill the gap in the strength data for Iranian population, or used by health and safety practitioners in the field.