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Strength Isometric Test: Elbow Extension

strength-isometric Jul 10, 2023
 

Here is a general protocol for testing elbow extension isometric strength with a Muscle Meter:

  1. Have the client seated in an upright position, with their elbow tucked into their torso and flexed to 90 degrees, or perhaps a little bit more. The client’s elbow should be in a supinated position. 
  2. The practitioner should rest the one end of the Muscle Meter on their own thigh while the press pad end is placed just underneath above the wrist joint of the client’s forearm. Doing this will allow for greater leverage and will make it easier to match the client's strength.
  3. Once set, queue the client to extend their elbow as best they can, holding for 2-3 seconds to achieve maximal force production.
  4. Upon completion, hit save in the Measurz app and compare to the other side.

It is important to note that specific testing protocols may vary depending on the muscle meter used and the purpose of the test. It is recommended to follow established protocols and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional when performing any type of muscle testing.

Here are some examples of normative data for elbow extension isometric strength:

  • For healthy adults aged 20-29 years, the average peak force for males is 230 N (range 180-290 N), and for females is 135 N (range 110-160 N) (Bohannon et al., 1985).
  • For healthy adults aged 30-79 years, the average peak force for males is 209 N (range 166-252 N), and for females is 125 N (range 96-154 N) (Bohannon et al., 2008).
  • For healthy children aged 5-17 years, the average peak force for elbow extension is 50% of body weight for males and 40% of body weight for females (Worrell et al., 1991).

It is important to note that these values are only general guidelines and may not apply to all individuals or populations. Additionally, normative data should always be used in conjunction with clinical judgment and consideration of the individual's medical history and current condition.

 

References:

  1. Bohannon, R. W. (2008). Hand-held compared with isokinetic dynamometry for measurement of static knee extension torque (parallel reliability of dynamometers). Clinical Physiology and Functional Imaging, 28(5), 318-321.
  2. Hislop, H. J., & Montgomery, J. (2007). Daniels and Worthingham's muscle testing: Techniques of manual examination and performance testing. Elsevier Health Sciences.
  3. Mathiowetz, V., Rennells, C., & Donahoe, L. (1985). Effect of elbow position on grip and key pinch strength. Journal of Hand Surgery, 10(5), 694-697.
  4. Norkin, C. C., & White, D. J. (2009). Measurement of joint motion: a guide to goniometry. FA Davis.
  5. Robertson, D. G. E., & Dowling, J. J. (2003). Design and responses of Butterworth and critically damped digital filters. Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology, 13(6), 569-572.

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