Validity of grip strength dynamometry in acute rehabilitation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the discriminant and predictive validity of grip strength measurements obtained dynamometrically from patients in acute rehabilitation. Retrospective chart reviews were performed to retrieve information on admission grip strength. That strength was compared to published norms to establish discriminant construct validity. Predictive validity was investigated by analyzing the relationship of grip strength with rehabilitation length of stay (LOS) and discharge self-care function (Functional Independence Measure scores). Wilcoxon signed ranks tests showed that the patients' grip strength was significantly less than normal on both their left (Z=-9.205, p