An assessment of the effects of variations in the Palmaris longus tendon and the fifth superficial flexor digitorum on pinch and grip strength

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The effect of the absence or presence of the Palmaris longus tendon on pinch and grip strength was investigated in this study. Similarly, the effect of the presence or absence of the fifth superficial flexor digitorum on grip strength in the hand was studied. The aim of the present study was to assess the combined effect of these anatomical variations on pinch and grip strength. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, 523 volunteers and their 1046 hands were enrolled. Each hand was assessed for the presence or absence of the Palmaris longus tendon and for variations in the fifth superficial flexor digitorum function. Then the grip and pinch power of the hands were measured with the Jammar Dynamometer. RESULTS: The presence or absence of Palmaris longus had no effect on grip strength in the individuals studied. Likewise, variations in fifth superficial flexor digitorum function had no effect on grip and pinch strengths. But the results of statistical testing showed the effect of the presence of Palmaris longus on pinch strength (25.38 lbs in hands with Palmaris present vs 24.43 lbs in hands without Palmaris). Pinch and grip power was higher in men than in women and in the right hand than in the left. CONCLUSION: Based on the findings of the present study, it seems that absence of the Palmaris longus tendon is associated with a reduction in pinch strength but has no effect on grip strength, and the variations in the fifth superficial flexor digitorum (flexor digitorum superficialis, or FDS) have no effect on pinch and grip strengths.