Assessment of Changes in Hand Grip Strength Following Oral Nutritional Supplementation with Ensure High Protein Using the Squegg Digital Hand Dynamometer

Abstract

Aim: To assess changes in hand grip strength before and after oral nutritional supplementation with Ensure High Protein using the Squegg digital hand dynamometer.
Background: Hand grip strength (HGS) is an objective functional parameter used to assess muscle strength and monitor functional changes in patients at nutritional risk. Adequate energy and protein intake are essential for maintaining muscle function and supporting recovery. Oral nutritional supplements (ONS), such as Ensure High Protein, may help improve protein and energy intake when incorporated into individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy.
Methodology: This observational pre–post assessment was conducted by the Department of Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics among selected patients receiving Ensure High Protein as part of their individualized nutritional care plan. Hand grip strength was measured at baseline and reassessed following the prescribed supplementation period using the Squegg digital hand dynamometer. Pre- and post-supplementation measurements were compared to determine the magnitude and direction of change in grip strength.
Results: The assessment focused on identifying changes in hand grip strength following nutritional supplementation. The pre- and post-intervention measurements were analyzed to evaluate the observed improvement, maintenance, or decline in muscle strength. The numerical findings are to be reported based on the collected patient data.
Conclusion: Serial assessment of hand grip strength using the Squegg digital hand dynamometer provides a practical approach to monitoring functional changes during nutritional care. Combining functional measurements with dietary assessment and clinical monitoring may support the evaluation of individualized nutrition interventions. However, changes observed following supplementation should be interpreted in the context of patients' clinical conditions, overall dietary intake, physical activity, and other treatments.