Correlation between thumb length on handgrip strength, hand dexterity and musculoskeletal problem among dental professional

Objective: The  key  factor  for  potency  of  the  teeth  is  their  muscular  strength.  The dominant  hand  plays  an  important  role  in  most  of  the  daily  muscular  activities  involving  dental  procedure.  There  are  many  factors,  which  may  affect  the  grip strength,  and  very  few  studies  especially  in  India  have  shown  their  correlation with  grip  strength. Work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) are an important occupational health problem affecting dental practitioners. This study assessed the prevalence of WRMSD in dental interns in relation to the thumb length and hand grip strength. Material and Methods : Thumb  length  template,  jammer  dynamometer,  nine-hole  peg board,  and RULA   assessment. Methods: Thumb  length  was measured  by  thumb  length template.  Grip  strength was measured  by  jammer  dynamometer, unilateral  hand  finger  dexterity was measured  by  nine-hole  pegboard,  and  work  related  musculoskeletal  disorder  was assessed  by  RULA. Results : Thumb  length was  positively   correlated  with  grip  strength  and  work related  musculoskeletal  disorder.  Thumb  length  was  negatively  correlated  with unilateral  hand  finger  dexterity  among  dental  professionals. Conclusion : Thumb  length  is  a  better  predictor  for  measuring  hand  grip strength   and   work related musculoskeletal   disorder,   than    unilateral   hand   finger dexterity. Keywords Dental professional; Hand grip strength; Thumb length; Unilateral hand finger dexterity; Work related musculoskeletal disorder.