Investigating the relationships between anthropometric characteristics, grip strength, hand flexibility and hand performance in woodcarvers.

BACKGROUND: Hand performance is essential for executing manual tasks and is influenced by anthropometric dimensions, grip strength, and flexibility. In the context of woodcarving, these factors significantly impact productivity and injury prevention. This study aims to assess the relationships between hand performance and selected anthropometric dimensions, grip strength, and flexibility among woodcarvers. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 120 woodcarvers aged 20-40 years, each with a minimum of one year of experience. Data were collected on demographic variables, hand anthropometric dimensions, grip strength, and wrist flexibility. Hand performance was evaluated through a standardized Purdue pegboard test. Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was used to analyze the relationships between hand characteristics and hand performance, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: The analysis revealed significant associations between hand performance and various hand characteristics. Specifically, palmar length was positively correlated with peg placement performance (F = 4.254, p = 0.041), whereas grip strength at 180° elbow extension was linked to greater efficiency in assembly tasks (F = 5.201, p = 0.024). Additionally, flexibility parameters, including wrist flexion and extension range of motion, correlated with improved hand performance across multiple tasks of the Purdue pegboard test. CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the importance of anthropometric dimensions, grip strength, and flexibility in enhancing woodcarving performance. The implementation of ergonomic interventions aimed at improving grip strength and wrist flexibility could increase efficiency and reduce injury risks in manual professions.