Responsiveness of measurements of knee extension force obtained by hand-held dynamometry: A preliminary analysis

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Bohannon, Richard W.^a

Affiliations: [a] Department of Kinesiology, Neag School of Education, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA

Note: [] Address for correspondence: Richard W. Bohannon, Department of Physical Therapy, Neag School of Education, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-2101, USA. Tel.: +1 860 486 0048; Fax: +1 860 486 1588; E-mail: richard.bohannon@uconn.edu

Abstract: A retrospective review of patient records was undertaken to establish the responsiveness of measurements of knee extension force obtained by hand-held dynamometry. Of particular interest was a minimal clinically important difference (MCID). A transition of dependence to independence in sit-to-stand was considered clinically important. Patients who experienced such a transition had a mean increase in bilateral knee extension force of 83 N (43%), whereas patients who remained dependent in sit-to stand demonstrated a decrease in bilateral knee extension force of 7 N (3%). Although a difference of 43% is contextual, it provides the first clue of an MCID in knee extension force indicative of responsiveness for the measurement.

Keywords: Muscle strength, measurement, dynamometry

DOI: 10.3233/IES-2009-0349

Journal: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 17, no. 3, pp. 169-172, 2009