Analysis of the Role of Handgrip Strength and Pinch Force on Handwriting Speed

Abstract

Introduction
Handwriting is a complex neuromotor skill that involves cognitive and motor processes. Reports demonstrating the relationship between handwriting speed, handgrip strength, and pinch force are scanty. Knowledge of this will help in managing illnesses that impair motor function, such as developmental or neurological disorders. This study was carried out to determine the handgrip strength, pinch force, and handwriting speed in young adults and to understand the relationship between them.

Materials and methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted among 127 students (aged 18–22 years) after obtaining their informed consent. Participants’ demographic data were collected using a questionnaire. Their handgrip strength and pinch force were measured using a hand dynamometer/pinch gauge (JAMAR, USA). The handwriting speed was determined by calculating the words written per minute. Student’s 't' test, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation tests were performed for data analysis.

Results
The mean handwriting speed of participants was significantly different in males and females. Handgrip strength and pinch force were found to be significantly higher in males compared to females. A significant negative correlation was observed between handwriting speed and handgrip strength and/or pinch force. However, these parameters were not found to be significantly different in different BMI groups.

Conclusion
The current study demonstrates that handwriting speed was higher in females than in males, but both grip strength and pinch force were higher in males than in females. The grip strength and pinch force had a negative relationship with handwriting speed but BMI did not influence any of the parameters studied in young adults. These results emphasise the significance of fine motor skills over muscle strength in handwriting effectiveness, stressing the necessity for rehabilitation approaches that prioritise coordination and endurance training instead of just enhancing grip strength.