was conducted on each subject
using a standardised protocol with the Jamar Grip Strength Dynamometer
and the B&L Pinch Gauge
. Both instruments were calibrated
prior to the study. For standardisation, the dynamometer's
adjustable handle was set on the second handle position for all
subjects, with one trial and hand dominance recorded; while the
B&L pinch gauge measured tip, lateral and 3 point pinch strength
for a single effort. These two hand assessment tools are commonly
used and considered to produce the most reliable and valid measurements
of grip and pinch strength