Pinch Gauge Dynamometers for Sale
Pinch gauges are used to test the pinch strength of patients. We carry mechanical and hydraulic evaluation tools made by Baseline, JTECH & Jamar.
Pinch strength is often used by physical therapists and other medical professionals in conjunction with grip strength testing to assess injuries and disabilities. It is also used by physiologists and researches to understand relationships between finger/hand strength and other health functions of the body.
Our selection of gauges include everything from simple mechanical gauges with analog readouts to more sophisticated hydraulic pinch assessment systems that present results using a digital display.
If you have questions about which model is appropriate for your needs, please contact ProHealthcareProducts.com customer service.
The ability to pinch and hold on to objects is vital to the many activities of which we perform on a daily basis. Several different muscles are involved in performing a “pinch” force, and there are a variety of different pinch types that a person uses to perform different functions. These include:
PINCH TYPE/
FUNCTION
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DESCRIPTION
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MUSCLES INVOLVED
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Lateral Pinch
(Key Pinch)
Function: Holding a key – starting a vehicle, unlocking a door
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Pinch gauge is between the flexed proximal interphalangeal joint (lateral side) of index finger and the pad of the thumb.
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Index Finger: First Dorsal Interossei
Thumb: Flexor Pollicis Brevis, Flexor Pollicis Longus
Carpometacarpal (CMC) of the thumb: Adductor Pollicis, Opponens Pollicis
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Palmar Pinch
(Chuck Pinch)
Function: Holding a plate, book, or other flat object when transporting or delivering to another person
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Pinch gauge is between the pad of the thumb (superior to gauge), and the pads of all four fingers (inferior to gauge).
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Thumb: Flexor Pollicis Brevis, Flexor Pollicis Longus
Carpometacarpal (CMC) of the thumb: Adductor Pollicis, Opponens Pollicis
Fingers: Flexor Digitorum Profundus, Flexor Digitorum Superficialis, Lumbricals to all four fingers
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Pulp to Pulp Pinch
Function: Holding a pencil/pen or other small elongated instrument/device
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Pinch gauge is between the pad of the thumb and the pad/pads of the index, or the index and middle fingers
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Thumb: Flexor Pollicis Brevis, Flexor Pollicis Longus
Carpometacarpal (CMC) of the thumb: Adductor Pollicis, Opponens Pollicis
Index & Middle Fingers: Flexor Digitorum Profundus, Flexor Digitorum Superficialis, and Lumbricals
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Tip to Tip Pinch
Function: Pinching with your fingertips or fingernails to a small object
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Pinch gauge is placed between the tip of the thumb and tip of the index finger
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Thumb: Flexor Pollicis Longus, Flexor Pollicis Brevis
Carpometacarpal (CMC) of the thumb: Adductor Pollicis
Index Finger: Flexor Digitorum Profundus
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Related: Pinch Gauge Norms And Testing Protocols
Pinch Strength Dynamometers For Hand Evaluation
Pinch strength meters or pinch dynamometers are medical devices that can be used to measure hand and finger strength. Pinch strength normative data is used for research and diagnostic purposes.
Occupational therapists and other professionals rely on these devices to customize treatment plans based on each patients needs. These pinch strength meters also play a key role in many health and professional screening processes.
It’s also important to note that pinch strength testing is not only a measure of strength, but also stability and functionality of the hand and fingers. Pinch strength testing play a big part in clinical decision making and outcome evaluation of common hand / finger / wrist issues, including:
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Tendon Injuries of the Hand
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Nerve Injuries
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And Neuromuscular Disorders
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Used for decision making purposes*
*within clinical, insurance, legal and employment screening processes.
What Is Pinch Strength Testing Used For?
Pinch strength testing devices are used in various industries to gather hand strength data. When used for medical purposes, pinch dynamometers help with the clinical decision making process and outcome evaluation.
Common uses include evaluation of patients suffering from various hand dysfunctions or trauma. Changes in pinch strength also help determine how a patient is responding to various therapy and treatment.
Pinch meters have applications for Functional Capacity Evaluation and Job Analysis tests as well. Employers and insurers rely on screening processes to protect their employees and themselves from job site accidents or chronic issues developed over time, like carpal tunnel etc.
Pinch Strength Gauges and Their Applications
Accuracy and reliability are key for any strength evaluation tool, especially when you’re dealing with smaller muscles. The hand muscles may be small but they are vital for maintaining overall health and quality of life.
When it comes to determining the strength of the hand, there are 2 basic types of pinch gauges available: Digital or Mechanical (sometimes also referred to as “analog”). When deciding which type of pinch strength testing equipment to purchase, you should consider the following.
Digital Pinch Gauges
Digital, or electronic, pinch strength testers have become the more popular solution as technology has evolved. Many top makers of strength evaluation equipment have even integrated into their full MMT systems.
These electronic pinch dynamometers are known for their accuracy and ease of use. The LCD or Digital screen featured on these devices makes them easier to read than the classic analog dial pinch gauge. Not only that, but these features the ability to store testing data and some can even be paired with computers for more advanced reporting capabilities.
Pinch strength testing systems the Commander Echo Pinch Gauge from JTECH Medical are the top of the line. Not only is it one of the best pinch dynamometers on the market, but the Commander Echo System is compatible with 6 other MMT modules that can be paired with the main Commander Echo Console.
Mechanical or Analog Pinch Gauges
Analog Pinch Strength Devices also have their benefits. For one thing, you won’t have to worry about battery life. They tend to be less expensive and just as reliable. And most of them are smaller and a bit more portable.
With an analog pinch gauge you will have to be a bit more diligent with data recording but many customers have found the simpler mechanical pinch gauges to be a better fit for their needs.
Each of our pinch meters is capable of performing all the major pinch testing protocols including: measure Tip, Key and Palmer pinch strength. Manufacturer's guarantee results are consistent with published Markowitz studies and pinch strength norms.
All devices can display readings in both lbs and kg and each includes protective carrying case. Our best seller is the Baseline Analog and Hydraulic Pinch Gauge Series. Baseline Evaluation is well known for their strength testing tools, especially their hand evaluation products.
Baseline Mechanical Pinch Gauges
These are a great entry level option for any user who needs to evaluate pinch strength. Choose between several weight capacities depending on your needs. The 30-60Lb gauge is intended for occupational and sports medicine applications where as the lighter 2 or 10lb max models are for damaged or weakened hands.
Baseline Hydraulic Pinch Gauges
There are more options when it comes to the Hydraulic Pinch Gauges from Baseline. You can choose from Digital, Analog, and extended Warranty Options. Choose your preferred style and warranty from 1, 2 or 5 years.
These devices were made larger than the mechanical pinch gauge to allow the tester to support the device for the subject. This results in increased accuracy for all the pinch testing protocols mentioned above and below.