Grip, Key Pinch, and Three Point Pinch Strength Measurement Using BTE Work Simulator

Rah, Ueon Woo; Kim, Joon Hwan; Lee, Il Yung; Moon, Hae Won; Koo, Ja Weon; Oh, Hyoung Seok

Abstract

Recently, increased emphasis has been placed on the need for rehabilitation professionals to objectively evaluate a patient's potential for and progress toward a return to normal function. But as medical recovery nears completion, additional questions are commonly asked by physicians regarding work function and ability to return to full active employment. In the past, therapists have attempted to reestablish the work situation using real tools, but these machines were expensive, have space limitations and in some cases, potentially dangerous as well. A Baltimore Therapeutic Equipment(BTE) Work Simulator overcomes these shortcomings. It can be used for isometric and isotonic evaluation and treatment and assisted in providing the information needed to make determinations regarding progress in therapy, return-to-work status and job modifications. We are going to obtain normative isometric, dynamic and endurance of grip strength, key pinch strength and three point pinch strength data using BTE Work Simulator model WS20. We also compare these data between ages and sexs. This study will be helpful in clinical applications of the BTE Work Simulator and providing the more specific job related occupational therapy and developing special vocational rehabilitation program.