What is a patient strength?

Patient strength measures the physical capabilities of a person for the purpose of determining functional status. It is commonly used to assess a patient's ability to perform daily activities and to develop strategies for maintaining or improving functional independence.

Patient strength is typically evaluated by a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or occupational therapist, using various methods and tools, some examples include:

1. Manual Muscle Testing (MMT): This involves the therapist manually applying resistance to a specific muscle group while the patient attempts to move against the resistance. The therapist assigns a grade based on the patient's ability to move the muscle against resistance.

2. Dynamometer: A handheld device that measures grip strength, which can provide insight into overall upper body strength.

3. Functional Strength Tests: These assess a patient's ability to perform functional movements, such as standing from a sitting position, climbing stairs, or lifting objects.

4. Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Assessment: This evaluates the patient's ability to perform everyday tasks, such as dressing, bathing, or preparing meals, which can provide insight into functional strength.

5. Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test: Measures the time it takes for a person to stand up from a chair, walk a short distance, turn around, walk back, and sit down again. This test assesses functional mobility and can be used to evaluate patient strength.

By determining the patient's strengths and limitations, healthcare professionals can establish appropriate interventions to improve functional status and independence. Strengthening exercises, mobility aids, and adaptive strategies may be recommended to enhance patient strength and overall well-being.