Investigation of the Relationship Between Functional Skills, Sensory Functions, and Anthropometric Properties of the Hand in Occupational Therapy Students Using Hierarchical Clustering Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to examine the relationship between functional skills, sensorimotor, and anthropometric variables of the hand in health science students. Material and Methods: The study was carried out on 70 students (21.51± 1.59 years; 61 women, 9 men) from Biruni University. Upper extremity anthropometric measurements were taken from the students. Hand Dynamometer and Pinchmeter were used for hand grip strength, Purdue Pegboard Test for hand dexterity, Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament for two-point discrimination, and Vibration Perception Test were used for sensory functions. Hierarchical cluster analysis was employed to find the clustering trend of the variables. Results: At the end of the research, two main clusters were obtained, of which four sub-clusters belonging to the second one were identified. The main cluster I contains pinch, dipod, tripod, lateral grip force, Purdue pegboard dominant, non-dominant, both, and assembly. Main cluster II contains finger lengths, palmar length, hand grip, total upper extremity length, height, two-point discrimination, vibration, weight, BMI, monofilament, palmar width, segmental arm, forearm, and hand length. Conclusion: As a result of the research, it was determined that pinch grip strength, dexterity, anthropometric and sensory characteristics were related to each other.