Factors Influencing Sonographer Grasp and Pincher Strength Before and After Fetal Echocardiograms
By
Sophia Calcara
Dawn Park
Olivia Bowers
Casey Lovelace
Kacy Taylor
Chance Alvarado
Samantha Fichtner
Karen Texter
Richard Rodenberg
Clifford L. Cua
July 4, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Determinants of Grasp and Pincher Strength in Sonographers Before and After Conducting Fetal Echocardiograms
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMD) Key Mechanisms Grip and pincer strength measurements in relation to fetal echocardiogram characteristics Target Population Fetal cardiac sonographers (f-CS) Care Setting Clinical sonography for fetal echocardiograms
Key Highlights
High incidence of WRMD (75-85%) among sonographers Grip strength is a measure of hand and forearm muscle power Minimal changes in grasp and pincher strength pre- and post-f-echo Significant negative correlation between grip strength change and maternal BMI Fetal echocardiograms present unique challenges for sonographers Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Evaluate maternal factors such as BMI and gestational age during f-echo Management
Implement rest breaks to decrease WRMD incidence among sonographers Monitoring & Follow-up
Regular assessment of GaP strength in sonographers performing f-echo Risks
Increased risk of WRMD due to various maternal and fetal factors Patient & Prescribing Data
Pregnant women undergoing fetal echocardiograms
Consider maternal body habitus and fetal positioning when assessing sonographer workload
Clinical Best Practices
Utilize ergonomic practices during sonography to minimize WRMD risk Conduct regular training on proper scanning techniques Encourage sonographers to report any symptoms of WRMD early Related Resources & Content
