Assessing the Knee Extensor's Rate of Force Development Using a Fixed Handheld Dynamometer: An Inter- and
Tomer Yona1, Arielle G Fischer1
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
Journal of Sport Rehabilitation
|November 22, 2024
Summary
A handheld dynamometer reliably measures knee extensor rate of force development (RFD) and peak force. This cost-effective method offers a quick alternative for assessing muscle strength.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Rate of force development (RFD) is crucial for muscle function.
- Traditional RFD assessment uses expensive electromechanical dynamometers.
- Accessible methods for RFD measurement are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate interrater reliability of a fixed handheld dynamometer for knee extensor RFD.
- Provide reference values for RFD using this accessible method.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study design.
- Utilized a fixed handheld dynamometer (microFET2) with a 3D-printed adapter.
- Measured peak force and early/late phase RFD (0-100ms, 0-200ms) in 51 participants.
Main Results:
- High in-session reliability for early and late RFD (ICC .87-.92).
- Strong between-session reliability for early and late RFD (ICC .83-.90).
- Excellent reliability for peak force (ICC .91-.95).
Conclusions:
- A fixed handheld dynamometer offers a reliable and cost-effective method for assessing knee extensor RFD and peak force.
- This approach provides a practical alternative for clinical and research settings.
- The study establishes reference values for this measurement technique.
