Strength of the orbicularis oculi

Abstract

An instrument designed to measure the strength of the orbicularis oculi is described. In 99 medical students, an average finding of 120-140 mm. Hg (60-70 g. weight) was obtained with a wide range on either side of the mean. A sex variation was found-males being slightly stronger than females. No consistent variation with age was found. No general right-or left-sided preponderance was found. It is considered that the instrument may prove useful in estimating the effects of drugs on the orbicularis oculi, and in following the course of recovery in cases of such disorders as Bell's palsy.