Hand by occupation evaluation of functions

It has been revealed that some issues such as professional characteristics, anthropometric measurement values, gender and age in different societies have determining features in strength and skill levels and functional capacities. There are differences between different societies incident to physical work load and work habits required for a certain profession. This study intends to evaluate the effects of different professions regarding hand grip strength and pinch strength skill level and hand function in our society.One hundred and thirty four healthy male subjects have completed the study. The subjects were chosen from office workers, security guards, nurses and industrial workers. Educational level of the patients, time period thereof in their profession, their dominant hands and anthropometric measurements were recorded. Employees? roughly hand grip strength and pinch strength were measured by Jamar Dynamometer and B & L pinch meter respectively. Nine Hole Peg test and Jebson Hand Function Tests were employed respectively to determine the skill and functionality levels of the subjects. All tests and measurements and recording methods were used during the standard measurement. Data obtained from measurements were analyzed through descriptive and analytical statistical methods.It has been found that there are differences in terms of work experience and training period duration between professional groups. Differences were observed in a greater number of tests as the work load difference of professions increased. Differences were found in tests made to office workers and industrial workers. It was found that industrial workers had more hand strength and less hand skills while office workers less had more hand skills and less hand strength.The data obtained in this study can be used in future prevention of musculoskeletal disorders for workers, placement of workers in appropriate jobs and to increase work efficiency.