Comparison of finger grip, hand grip strength and hand dexterity of university students studying in vocational departments requiring manual dexterity: A cross-sectional study

Abstract
Objectives. This study was planned to compare the finger dexterity, hand grip strength, and manual skills of university students studying in vocational departments requiring manual dexterity.
Methods. Participants' dominant side was determined by Edinburgh Hand Preference Inventory, hand grip strength by hand grip dynomometer and finger strength by pinchmeter, hand dexterity by Purdue Pedboarg Test, upper extremity functionality by upper extremity functional index and functional disability by Arm, Shoulder and Hand Disability Questionnaire.
Results. While there was no significant difference between the groups in finger grip and pinch grip strength (F: 0.711, p: 0.547), a significant difference was found in tripod and lateral grip (F: 6.963, p: <.001, F: 3.657, p: 0.014). There was a significant difference between the groups in hand grip strength; the effect size was moderate (F: 8.475, p: <.001, η2: 0.105). Purdue pegboard test for hand dexterity assessment, there were significant differences between the groups in right hand, total, and building small assemblies (F: 3.058, p: 0.030; F: 4.272, p: 0.006; F: 7.099, p: <.001, respectively), but not in left hand and both hands (F: 2.476, p: 0.063; F: 2.661, p: 0.050).
Conclusion. It was determined that there was a significant difference between the groups in finger grip strength, hand grip strength, and elbow skills, and there was no significant difference between the groups regarding upper extremity functionality.
Keywords: Pinch Strength, Nursing Students, University Student, Purdue Pegboard Test, Upper Limb