Hand strength and perceived manual ability among patients with multiple sclerosis.

Abstract

To describe hand function among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) and to examine the relationship between strength and self-reported abilities. Cross-sectional study using a convenience sample. Outpatient department at a rehabilitation center. Forty-four community-dwelling adults with MS (mean age, 49+/-9 y; range, 34-68 y) who were monitored by rehabilitation practitioners. Not applicable. Grip and pinch (tip, lateral, palmar) strengths and Manual Ability Measure (MAM-36). When compared with the 50- to 54-year-old female norms, the pinch and grip strengths of the sample were lower. MAM-36 correlated moderately with right pinch (tip, lateral, palmar) strengths (r range, .51-.59; P<.01). Manual ability seems to be more associated with pinch than grip strengths, probably because finger strength and dexterity are both needed to perform many hand tasks.