Strength Isometric Test: Neck Extension
Sep 06, 2023Here's how you can test neck extension isometric strength using Muscle Meter:
Materials Needed:
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Muscle Meter: This is a device used to measure force or muscle strength. It typically consists of a handle and a sensor that quantifies the force applied.
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Adjustable chair or bench: A stable surface that allows the individual being tested to sit comfortably with their back straight and feet flat on the ground.
Testing Procedure:
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Positioning the Individual:
- Ask the individual to sit on the adjustable chair or bench with their back straight and feet flat on the ground.
- Ensure that the individual is seated in a stable position, with their hips and back against the chair's backrest.
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Orientation of the Muscle Meter:
- Adjust the Muscle Meter so that the sensor (the part that measures force) is oriented vertically. It should be aligned with the individual's forehead.
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Stabilizing the Muscle Meter:
- The tester (or examiner) should hold the muscle meter against the individual's forehead with a firm but comfortable grip, ensuring that the sensor remains perpendicular to the forehead.
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Performing the Test:
- Instruct the individual to perform a maximal neck extension contraction by pushing their forehead against the dynamometer with as much force as they can while keeping their neck in a fixed, straight position (isometrically).
- Ask the individual to hold this contraction for a few seconds, typically 3 to 5 seconds, while you record the maximum force displayed on the muscle meter.
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Recording the Result:
- Record the maximum force in units such as pounds (lbs) or newtons (N) generated during the neck extension contraction.
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Repeat if Necessary:
- It's advisable to repeat the test 2-3 times with short rest periods between attempts to ensure consistency in the results.
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Documentation and Analysis:
- Document the highest force measurement obtained during the test.
- Compare the results to normative data or previous measurements if available, and consider them in the context of the individual's specific needs or rehabilitation goals.
References:
- Peek, K. (2022). The measurement of neck strength: A guide for sports medicine clinicians. Physical Therapy in Sport, 55, 282-288. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ptsp.2022.05.006.
- McKay, M. J., Baldwin, J. N., Ferreira, P., Simic, M., Vanicek, N., Burns, J., & Consortium, N. P. (2017). Normative reference values for strength and flexibility of 1,000 children and adults. Neurology, 88(1), 36-43. https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0000000000003466.
- Versteegh, T., Beaudet, D., Greenbaum, M., Hellyer, L., Tritton, A., & Walton, D. (2015). Evaluating the Reliability of a Novel Neck-Strength Assessment Protocol for Healthy Adults Using Self-Generated Resistance with a Hand-Held Dynamometer. Physiotherapy Canada, 67(1), 58-64. https://doi.org/10.3138/ptc.2013-66
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