Dynamometers are hand-held devices that typically measure grip strength. In literally seconds, it is possible to gain valuable information to guide diagnosis and intervention planning for patients recovering from muscle damage or deterioration.

Although they come in many forms these days, dynamometers are basically hand-held gadgets that patients squeeze to determine muscle strength. The basic administration procedure requires patients to alternate between the left and right hand, providing one forceful squeeze per hand. As they apply force, a gauge attached to the dynamometer produces a measurement that can be recorded and compared to the value from the other hand.

Qualities of Good Dynamometers

Normative data exist for this task, suggesting that despite hand preference, grip strength should be generally similar on the two hands. Thus, when the strength of one hand is grossly disproportionate to that of the other, there is an indication of disability. This impairment can stem from gross motor or muscular injury, or it can be the result of neuropsychological damage incurred in an accident.

Interestingly, dynamometers are being used in a growing number of psychological assessments as an indicator of neurological functioning and motor coordination. Good dyanometers give accurate readings without the patient being able to "feel" the handle move, thus leading to balanced and impartial results. You can purchase dynamometers with adjustable handles with as many as five positions, so that patients from children to basketball players can be accommodated.