Initial study on Hand Grip Asymmetry in Lebanese Adults: An Advanced Model Integrating Maximal and Explosive Strength

This study introduces a refined model of hand grip asymmetry tailored to the Lebanese population, incorporating both maximal strength (Fmax) and explosive strength (RFDmax). Unlike previous models that primarily focused on maximal strength, this dual-parameter approach provides a more comprehensive assessment of hand grip asymmetry, offering insights into functional health and injury risk. Given the absence of prior data on this population, the model establishes baseline asymmetry thresholds to support clinical evaluations and performance assessments. A total of 393 healthy adults (241 males, 152 females) from various Lebanese regions underwent hand grip assessments measuring Fmax and RFDmax for both the dominant (DH) and non-dominant hands (NDH). Asymmetry levels were computed separately for handgrip strength and handgrip explosive strength, and participants were classified into four asymmetry groups: low (0–10%), moderate (10.1–20%), high (20.1–30%), and very high (>30%) based on asymmetry percentage thresholds. Results indicated that males demonstrated approximately 44% greater hand grip strength (Fmax) and 47% higher RFDmax than females across both hands (p < 0.001). A dominant hand advantage was observed, with a 6.9% higher Fmax in males and a 7.9% difference in females (p < 0.001). While overall asymmetry did not differ significantly between genders, females exhibited slightly higher asymmetry in RFDmax. Notably, explosive strength asymmetry was more pronounced than maximal strength asymmetry, suggesting it may serve as a stronger indicator of neuromuscular control and injury risk. This model serves as a key reference for understanding hand grip asymmetry in the Lebanese population, establishing normative benchmarks that may aid in health risk identification and functional assessments. Future research should explore age-related trends and cross-population comparisons to further evaluate the impact of hand grip asymmetry on performance and health outcomes.