The Correlation of Peak Expiratory Flow Rate and Hand Dynamometry in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients

A Case Control study

Abstract

Objectives: To determine the correlation of peak expiratory flow rate and hand dynamometry in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and to find out the differences between hand grip in cases and control group

Methodology: This study was carried out in the Department of Physiology and Department of Chest Medicine, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College between July 1st 2019 and June 30th 2020 after the approval of the research and ethical committee of the same hospital. We used purposive sampling technique. Total 100 consenting individuals were recruited that were equally divided into control group and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease group. Anthropometric measurements alongwith peak expiratory flow rate and hand dynamometry values were measured.

Results: We found significant difference in hand grip strength and peak expiratory flow rate between the case and control groups, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients have decreased peak expiratory flow rate and handgrip strength. Weak correlation exists between peak expiratory flow rate and hand grip strength with significant p value. No relationship was found between waist hip ratio and hand grip. Also, body mass index showed a weak negative but statistically significant correlation with hand grip strength.

Conclusion: In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients, hand grip strength is decreased and determining hand grip strength may ensures quick assessment of quality of life.