Limp handshake could be sign of heart damage

A WEAK handshake could be an early sign of a failing heart, scientists say.

A link has been found between a limp grip and damaging changes in heart structure and function – and experts believe hand grip could be used as a broad measure of heart health.

Researchers analysed heart scan images from almost 5,000 participants with a range of different handshakes.

They found a stronger grip was associated with higher volumes of blood being pumped by the heart and healthier heart muscle. This in turn led to a lower risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

People with weak handshakes were more likely to have enlarged, damaged hearts.

Professor Steffen Petersen, who led the team from Queen Mary University of London, said: ‘Our study shows better hand grip strength is associated with having a healthier heart structure and function.

‘Hand grip strength is an inexpensive, reproducible and easy to implement measure, and could become an easy way of identifying people at high risk of heart disease and preventing major life-changing events, such as heart attacks.’

For the study, in the journal Public Library of Science ONE, grip was measured by asking people to grasp a device called a dynamometer for three seconds.

Julie Ward, of the British Heart Foundation which co-funded the research, said: ‘This research does not mean you will have a heart attack if you find yourself with a limp handshake or struggling to open a jar. If you are concerned about your heart health … speak to your GP.’