Evaluation of the use of a wedge in quadriceps strengthening

The purpose of the study was to ascertain whether a wedge placed under the knee during resistive exercise enhances quadriceps strengthening and the length-tension relationship of the quadriceps. Twenty normal women students were tested for maximal isometric contraction of their left quadriceps at different knee positions. The test positions were zero, 30, 60, and 90 degrees. The greatest muscle force was recorded when the knee angle was 60 degrees and the least force was recorded when the knee extended fully. The results of the length-tension relationship of muscle obtained in this study adhered to the accepted concept. Values recorded for quadriceps force when the wedge was placed under the knee did not differ significantly from those values recorded when the wedge was not used. The use of the wedge in quadriceps exercise does not appear to be an effective means of generating greater force than when no wedge is used.