Quantitative measurements of hip strength in different age groups

The purpose of this study was to develop a clinically useful method of assessing the strength of the hip musculature and to develop a normal data base with this technique. The strength of 72 subjects aged 20-81 years (37 women and 35 men) was measured through the use of a modified Cybex II with an upright stabilization frame for testing sagittal and frontal plane motions; transverse plane motions of internal and external rotation were tested in the seated position. The subjects were tested at multiple isokinetic speeds and isometric angles. Regardless of age or gender, hip extensors were the strongest muscle group, following by flexors, adductors, abductors, and rotators. As the velocity of exercise increased, the magnitude of the torques produced decreased. Demographically, younger men produced the greatest torques and older women the lowest. The strength values of older men and younger women were similar. The results have clinical implications for objective assessment of strength in pathologic patient populations.