The objective was to determine the correlation strength between the grip strength and frequency of upper extremity injuries among Filipino rock climbers. Secondary objectives included (1) to determine how frequently rock climbers acquire upper extremity injuries; (2) identify the most frequent upper extremity injuries to occur; and (3) determine the grip strength among adult male and female Filipino rock climbers using the JAMARTM Dynamometer based on the survey.
A correlational design was used to determine correlation between grip strength and frequency of injuries. 18 participants from 6 rock climbing gyms in Metro Manila were screened using the inclusion criteria. Climbing experience and injuries were surveyed through a questionnaire, and grip strengths were measured using a JamarTM Dynamometer. Data collected were used to determine the demographics, most common injuries, and its correlation with the average grip strength. The data were statistically analyzed using Frequency Count and Percentage & Arithmetic Mean. Scatter plot and Pearson r were utilized to interpret the results.
The individuals with higher grip strength (n = ≥36 kg/N) had more recurrence of upper extremity injuries (5 being the highest frequency) than those with lower grip strength (n = ≤ 36 kg/N) which had less recurrence (1 being the lowest frequency). With a correlation coefficient r = 0.444 (p value = 0.05), it suggested moderate correlation between grip strength and frequency of injury.
The study found a moderate correlation between the grip strength and frequency of upper extremity injuries among Filipino rock climbers in Metro Manila. Based on the survey, it was determined that males have higher average grip strength (n = 36.82 kg/N) than females (n = 23.05 kg/N) on their dominant hand. Majority of the participants reported 1-2 upper extremity injuries in their experience, with hand tendinitis being the most frequent.
The acquired information would greatly impact the physiotherapy approaches in handling musculoskeletal conditions among the rock climbers. Since the distal region of the upper extremities were frequently injured, formulation of appropriate management has a vital role in rehabilitation. Physiotherapy approaches can also sprout to prevent injuries through strengthening the structures that are predominantly used in rock climbing. This is also imperative in order for rock climbers to meet the demands of climbing such as adhering to various climbing holds and utilizing different hand grips in a more efficient manner.
upper limb injuries
grip strength
