From Hand to Heel: Functional Predictors of Performance in Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

Introduction:
Menopause is a critical transitional phase in a woman’s life marked by declining estrogen levels, leading to progressive musculoskeletal deterioration and functional decline. Grip strength and gait speed are simple, reliable indicators of overall physical performance and early frailty. However, limited evidence exists regarding their predictive value during the perimenopausal and early postmenopausal stages. This study aimed to evaluate grip strength, pinch strength, and gait speed as predictors of functional performance in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.

Methodology:
A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 100 community-dwelling women aged 45–65 years, including 50 perimenopausal and 50 postmenopausal women classified using STRAW+10 criteria. Grip strength was assessed using a Jamar hand-held dynamometer, pinch strength using a pinchometer, and gait speed using the 4-Meter Walk Test. Descriptive statistics and correlation analyses were performed to examine associations between strength measures and gait speed.

Results:
Postmenopausal women demonstrated significantly lower grip strength, pinch strength, and gait speed compared to perimenopausal women. Dominant-hand grip strength showed an approximate 18–20% reduction in postmenopausal participants. Gait speed was also markedly slower in the postmenopausal group. Significant positive correlations were observed between grip strength, pinch strength, and gait speed in both groups (r ≈ 0.41–0.61, p < 0.01), with stronger associations noted among postmenopausal women.

Conclusion:
Grip strength and gait speed decline significantly across the menopausal transition and are strongly interrelated, supporting their role as early indicators of functional decline. Grip strength emerged as a practical surrogate marker of global physical performance. Early assessment during perimenopause may facilitate timely preventive interventions to preserve functional independence and quality of life.