Abstract (eng)
Countless studies showed a signifikant correlation between hand strenght and features of robusticity of the upper extremity and the digit ratio. However most of these studies only included men. In this diploma thesis, we focused not only on testing the associati-on beween hand strenght, robusticity of the wrist and digit ratio, but also on documen-ting gender differences. Furthermore the level of activity was put in relation to hand strenght, robusticity and digit ratio.
The following hypotheses were tested:
Men surpass same age women in hand strenght and robusticity, women surpass men in the digit ratio. A high level of physical activity correlates with hand strenght and ro-busticity, but negatively correlates with the digit ratio. Hand strenght and wrist width of the dominant hand surpass those of the non dominant hand.
The data of 85 women and 85 men age 18 to 32 was analysed. Wrist width, index- and ringfinger were measured using a digital slide caliper. The handedness was defined using the Edinburgh-Inventory. The level of physical activity was gathered using a questionnaire. The analysis of the data was made using SPSS.
As expected, men clearly surpassed women in hand strenght and wrist width.
Regarding the digit ratio, no significant correlations could be found. The wrist width correlated partly with the level of activity, however handedness did not influence wrist width. The subjects showed significantly higher hand strenght with their dominant hand.
In conclusion, the hypotheses could partly be verified.