Inline dynamometry for testing knee extensor torque
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A prospective cross-sectional study to determine the reliability and validity of inline ‘pull-type’ dynamometry for measuring peak knee extensor torque in patients following anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.
IRAS ID
292270
Contact name
Richard Norris
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 5 months, 6 days
Research summary
Research Summary
Muscle strength is important for knee function after cruciate ligament surgery. The best method for measuring strength involves equipment that is very expensive and therefore difficult to access for many clinicians. Hand-held devices are more affordable but 'push-type' devices have limitations when measuring quadriceps (the muscles on the front of the thigh) strength in strong individuals. 'Pull-type' devices may be better for measuring quadriceps strength but this has not yet been adequately investigated. This study will therefore investigate the reliability and validity of a 'pull-type' device for measuring quadriceps strength.
Summary of Research
: Inline dynamometry (ID), performed at 60° knee flexion, provides reliable measurements of quadriceps strength in healthy individuals. In participants who were at least 12-weeks post-anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using a hamstrings graft, ID provides reliable measurements of quadriceps strength, with high criterion validity. This method can therefore be recommended as a practical, time efficient alternative to isometric electromechanical dynamometry at 60° knee flexion in these cohorts, with observed scores and measurement error estimates that are comparable with the gold-standard.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/PR/0738
Date of REC Opinion
18 Jun 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion