You can test thumb strength by performing a simple resistance test. Have the patient sit with their wrist neutral and thumb relaxed and hanging down in abduction. Stabilize the metacarpals by grasping the patient's hand around the ulnar side. Apply resistance to the medial side of the proximal phalanx in the direction of abduction. This tests the thumb's ability to abduct against resistance, indicating its strength.
Other tests that may be useful in assessing thumb strength include:
- Pinch Grip Test: This test measures the strength of the thumb and index finger working together. It is commonly used to assess grip strength after injuries to the hand or forearm.
- Jamar Hand Dynamometer: This tool can be used to measure grip strength objectively. It is often used in clinical settings to track progress after injury or surgery.
- Manual Muscle Testing (MMT): This method involves assessing muscle strength through a series of specific movements. MMT can be used to evaluate the strength of individual muscles, including the thumb muscles.
Remember that testing thumb strength is contraindicated before full healing following a fracture, ligament repair, tendon laceration, or tendon transfer of the forearm, wrist, or hand.
