You can test your wrist strength using a variety of methods, both at home and in a clinical setting. Here are some common ways to assess wrist strength:
1. Manual Muscle Testing (MMT): This is a widely used method that involves a healthcare professional applying resistance to your wrist movements.
- Procedure:
- Sit with your forearm resting on a table, thumb side up, hand hanging off the edge.
- The therapist stabilizes your forearm with one hand and applies downward resistance to your wrist as you actively abduct your wrist.
- The therapist grades your strength on a scale of 0 to 5, with 5 being the strongest.
2. Isokinetic Dynamometer: This device measures the strength and speed of your wrist movements.
- Procedure:
- Sit with your arm resting on a padded table, elbow flexed at 90 degrees.
- Place your hand on the dynamometer's handle and follow instructions to perform specific wrist movements.
- The device will record the force and speed of your movements.
3. Resisted Isometric Testing: This method involves applying resistance to your wrist while it's held in a static position.
- Procedure:
- For example, to assess wrist extension, fixate the distal forearm and apply resistance to the back of your hand, resisting your attempt to extend your wrist.
4. Grip Strength Testing: Although not directly related to wrist strength, grip strength is closely correlated and can be used as a proxy.
- Procedure:
- Use a hand dynamometer to measure how much force you can exert with your hand when gripping the device.
5. Modified Sphygmomanometer Test: This method uses a modified blood pressure cuff to measure grip strength.
- Procedure:
- Inflate the cuff to a pressure level slightly above your normal systolic blood pressure.
- Squeeze the cuff as hard as you can.
- The pressure at which you can squeeze the cuff is measured and used to determine your grip strength.
Remember: It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive assessment of your wrist strength. They can identify any underlying conditions and recommend appropriate treatment options.
