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Methods for measurement of muscle function. Methodological aspects, reference values for children, and clinical
1Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, Sweden.
Scandinavian Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine. Supplement
|January 1, 1988
Summary
This study establishes reference values for isometric and isokinetic muscle strength in children, highlighting age and sex-related differences and the utility of functional tests for assessing muscle function.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric physical therapy
- Neuromuscular function assessment
- Child development
Background:
- Assessing muscle strength in children is crucial for understanding development and diagnosing conditions.
- Standardized reference values are needed for various muscle groups and age ranges.
- Different testing methods have varying applicability and reliability in pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish reference values for isometric and isokinetic muscle force in children aged 3.5-15 years.
- To investigate age, sex, and limb dominance differences in muscle strength.
- To evaluate the reliability and utility of different muscle testing methods, including functional tests, in children, particularly those with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Main Methods:
- Isometric muscle force measurement using a hand-held dynamometer.
- Isokinetic muscle torque measurement for ankle dorsiflexors.
- Functional tests of motor ability.
- Electrical stimulation of the adductor pollicis muscle.
Main Results:
- Isometric muscle force in children aged 3.5-15 years showed acceptable reproducibility, with predicted values based on age and weight.
- Significant differences in muscle strength were observed between dominant and non-dominant limbs, and between sexes (boys stronger than girls from 9.5-11 years).
- Isokinetic dorsiflexor torque increased with age, with peak development between 12-15 years, and sex differences emerging in puberty. Functional tests were useful for Duchenne muscular dystrophy assessment, while isokinetic testing was unreliable in this cohort.
Conclusions:
- Isometric dynamometry provides reliable muscle strength data in children, with established reference values.
- Age and sex are significant factors influencing muscle strength development in children.
- Functional tests are valuable for assessing muscle function in severely impaired children, complementing other methods.