precisiegrip

Precisiegrip, the Dutch term for precision grip, describes a hand configuration used to manipulate small or delicate objects by opposing the pad of the thumb against the pads of the index finger (and often the middle finger). This grip contrasts with a power grip, where the fingers wrap around an object with the palm.

Functionally, the precision grip enables fine control of position and orientation. The fingertips apply load and stabilizing forces while the object is held with minimal contact area. Control relies on somatosensory feedback from the finger pads and anticipatory motor planning based on object properties such as size, weight, and friction. Visual information may guide initial grip selection, with tactile feedback guiding adjustments to prevent slip or crush.

In humans, precision grip involves specialized muscle coordination, notably the thenar pad muscles and the lateral finger interossei, and cortical circuits for sensorimotor integration. Clinically, precision grip is essential for daily tasks such as pinching small objects, writing, or manipulating tiny tools; impairment can occur after stroke, nerve injury, or neurodegenerative disease. In technology, it informs the design of dexterous robotic hands and prostheses that mimic human fingertip manipulation.

Related terms include pinch grip and fingertip pinch; assessment often uses pinch strength tests.