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Isokinetic dynamometric technique for spasticity assessment

K K Firoozbakhsh1, C F Kunkel, A M Scremin

  • 1Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque 87131-3581.

American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
|December 1, 1993
PubMed
Summary
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Quantifying spasticity is feasible using an isokinetic dynamometer to measure resistance to passive movement. Summing torque amplitudes and analyzing torque-velocity curves provide sensitive and repeatable spasticity assessment methods.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Biomechanics
  • Rehabilitation Engineering

Background:

  • Spasticity, a common symptom of upper motor neuron lesions, presents challenges in objective quantification.
  • Current spasticity assessments often rely on subjective clinical scales, limiting precision and reproducibility.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and validate a quantifiable method for assessing spasticity using an isokinetic dynamometer.
  • To evaluate the sensitivity and repeatability of torque-based measurements in differentiating spastic from non-spastic populations.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized an isokinetic dynamometer to measure resistance to passive knee flexion and extension at specified velocities and ranges of motion.
  • Quantified spasticity by calculating the summation of consecutive resisting torque amplitudes.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Analyzed torque-velocity relationships by determining the slope of linear regression curves.

    • Main Results:

    • The summation of torque amplitudes was significantly higher in the spastic group compared to the normal group (P < 0.0028).
    • Torque values demonstrated a linear increase with increasing velocity (r > 0.75) in both groups.
    • The slope of the torque-velocity curve was significantly greater in spastic subjects, indicating heightened sensitivity to stretch velocity (P < 0.0004).

    Conclusions:

    • Serial summation of torque amplitudes and torque-velocity curve slope analysis are sensitive and repeatable methods for objective spasticity assessment.
    • These biomechanical measures offer a more rigorous and quantifiable alternative to traditional subjective spasticity scales.
    • The findings support the feasibility of using isokinetic dynamometry for precise spasticity quantification in clinical and research settings.