Evaluation of grip strength measurements after Colles' fracture: A methodological study

Maximal isometric grip strength during short and sustained contractions was registered in 28 females and five males with displaced Colles' fracture in volving the distal radio-ulnar joint. After reduction the patients were imm obilized with plaster cast or with external fixation. The reliability of th e measurements of the uninjured side was high and stable over a two-year fo llow-up period. The between-occasion reliability of the injured side was lo wer than that of the uninjured side. At each session the intensity of pain was measured. There was a reduction in pain after two years. The discrimina tory ability of the measurements was satisfactory. It is suggested that the measurement methods and the present findings may serve as guidance in phys iotherapy for these patients, especially if the uninjured side is used as r eference.