Using the BTE Primus to measure grip and wrist flexion strength in physically active wheelchair users: an exploratory study.

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to establish test-retest reliability values for the newly designed grip and wrist attachments of the BTE Primus and to determine criterion-related validity of the new grip attachment against the Jamar dynamometer. An additional purpose was to explore the differences in grip and wrist flexion strength between wheelchair users and control participants without disabilities and to examine the effect of body position on strength in persons without disabilities. METHOD Wheelchair users and matched controls (13 per group) were tested for grip and wrist flexion strength on the BTE Primus and for grip on the Jamar dynamometer. RESULTS The BTE Primus grip attachment was found to be valid and reliable. No significant differences were found in static and dynamic grip or wrist flexion strength between the two groups or in the sitting versus standing position for the control group. CONCLUSION The findings suggest that the BTE Primus may be used to assess grip and wrist flexion strength validly and reliably for both wheelchair users and persons without disabilities.