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Hand-held dynamometry correlation with the gold standard isokinetic dynamometry: a systematic review
Timothy Stark1, Bruce Walker, Jacqueline K Phillips
1School of Chiropractic and Sports Science, Faculty of Health Science, Murdoch University, Health Sciences, South Street, Perth, Western Australia 6150, Australia. sportchiro@aol.com
Summary
Hand-held dynamometry is a reliable and valid tool for assessing muscle strength in clinical settings. It offers advantages in ease of use, portability, and cost compared to isokinetic devices.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Biomechanics
- Musculoskeletal Assessment
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Muscle strength assessment is crucial in clinical practice.
- Traditional isokinetic devices are effective but often costly and less portable.
- There is a need for accessible and reliable muscle strength measurement tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the existing evidence on the reliability and validity of hand-held dynamometry (HHD).
- To determine if HHD is suitable for muscle strength assessment in clinical environments.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases (Cochrane, MEDLINE, PubMed, PEDro, OTseeker, ICL, MANTIS) until January 2010.
- Studies comparing HHD with a reference standard (isokinetic testing) were identified and reviewed.
- Quality assessment of included studies was conducted by independent reviewers using standardized criteria.
Main Results:
- Seventeen manuscripts comprising 19 studies met the inclusion criteria.
- Hand-held dynamometry demonstrated minimal differences when compared to isokinetic muscle strength testing.
- The findings suggest comparable accuracy between the two methods.
Conclusions:
- Hand-held dynamometry is a reliable and valid instrument for clinical muscle strength assessment.
- Its practical advantages include ease of use, portability, and lower cost.
- HHD presents a viable alternative to more complex isokinetic systems for routine clinical use.
