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Normative values for isometric muscle force measurements obtained with hand-held dynamometers
A W Andrews1, M W Thomas, R W Bohannon
1University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill, 27514, USA.
Physical Therapy
|March 1, 1996
Summary
This study provides normative values for maximum voluntary isometric force in adults aged 50-79 using hand-held dynamometry. These reference values help clinicians assess muscle strength impairments in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Biomechanics
- Clinical Measurement
Background:
- Assessing patient impairment requires comparing performance to normative data.
- Limited studies exist on normative values for hand-held dynamometry muscle strength.
- This study addresses the need for such data in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish normative values for maximum voluntary isometric force.
- To utilize hand-held dynamometers for muscle strength assessment.
- To focus on an older adult population (aged 50-79 years).
Main Methods:
- 156 healthy adults (77 men, 70 women; mean age 64.4 years) participated.
- Measurements included 8 upper-extremity and 5 lower-extremity movements.
- A strain-gauge hand-held dynamometer was used by experienced testers.
Main Results:
- Gender, age, and weight were significant independent predictors of force.
- Regression equations were developed based on these predictors.
- Normative values for muscle force were generated for dominant and nondominant sides.
Conclusions:
- The study provides reference values for muscle force in adults aged 50-79.
- Clinicians can use these values to estimate force-generating impairments.
- A standardized testing protocol is recommended for accurate assessment.