Posture-dependent isometric trunk extension and flexion strength in normal male and female subjects

The objective of this study was to quantify the relationship between trunk posture and trunk muscle function in a group of young, normal male and female subjects. Ten male and 10 female subjects performed isometric flexion and extension tasks using a trunk dynamometer. Peak isometric torque was recorded in flexion and extension at 10 degrees increments over a sagittal posture range of -20 degrees extension to +50 degrees of flexion. Significant differences in trunk strength (isometric torque) were found between males and females, at various sagittal plane trunk postures, and between flexion (F) and extension (E) tasks. Flexion torque was greatest at 20 degrees to 30 degrees flexion, whereas extension torque was greatest at 50 degrees flexion. Gender-specific differences in trunk strength were markedly reduced when the torque data were normalized by the subject's height multiplied by body weight. The E/F torque ratio showed a relatively linear, over twofold increase with increasing flexion angle, and was significantly greater for female subjects compared with male subjects at most sagittal postures. The baseline trunk isometric strength data provided by this study should help clinicians to use strength testing more precisely and specifically in prevention and diagnosis of patients at risk for back disorders.