The Reference Values for Muscle Mass and Strength in Healthy Indian Adults Using Whole-Body Potassium Counter and Isokinetic Dynamometer

The study aims to define the sex‑based reference data for muscle mass and strength among healthy young Indians and to compare the data from the present study with available literature. Healthy Indian adults (n = 100) aged between 18 and 40 years were recruited. The assessment of muscle mass and strength was performed. The body cell mass (BCM), fat‑free mass, and muscle strength parameters were significantly higher among males compared to females (P < 0.001). A comparison of the current study data with the available literature showed that though BCM was comparable, Indians demonstrated a significantly lower isometric peak torque (P < 0.001 for both sexes). These findings suggest that Indians tend to have a lower muscle strength compared to the Western population, despite having a comparable BCM content.

Isokinetic muscle strength of knee for patients with chondromalacia patellae / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To analyze the characteristics of the muscle strength around the knee joint of chondromalacia patellae patients, and to explore the difference with normal people.Methods In March, 2021, 70 knee-onset chondromalacia patellae patients (experimental group) and 35 normal people (control group) were measured isokinetic muscle strength of flexion and extension of knee in angular velocities of 60°/s and 180°/s.Results At 60°/s and 180°/s, the peak torque, the peak torque-to-weight ratio and the total work of the flexor and extensor muscles on the affected side in the experimental group were lower than that of the control group (U > 1097.0, P<0.001). The peak torque, the peak torque-to-weight ratio and the total work of the flexor and extensor muscles at 60°/s and extensor muscles at 180°/s were lower on the affected side than on the healthy side in the experimental group (|Z| > 2.121, P<0.05). The peak torque ratios at 60°/s and 180°/s were more in the affected knees than in the healthy knees of experimental group and in the control group (U > 1810.0, |Z| >3.691, P<0.01).Conclusion The explosive force and endurance of the knee flexor and extensor has weakened in patients with chondromalacia patellae, and there is imbalance in knee joint muscle strength.

Delayed onset muscle soreness intensity affects muscular performance / El Dolor muscular de aparición tardía afecta el desempeño muscular

Abstract Background: The study of functional impact of delayed onset muscle soreness has been limited to describe the decline on maximal isometric contraction, but muscular work and time to peak torque has not been examined yet. Purpose: To describe the changes induced by a session of lengthening contractions on muscle performance and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Institutional laboratory; Twenty healthy men; mean age 21 SD 0.34 were recruited, all subjects performed 200 lengthening contractions of the quadriceps at 120°/s. Isometric and isokinetic peak torque, muscular work, time to peak torque, DOMS and creatine kinase activity were assessed at baseline, 48 h and 96 h post-exercise. The muscle performance was assessed with an isokinetic dynamometer and DOMS with a visual analog scale (VAS). Results: Relative to baseline, isometric and isokinetic peak torque and muscular work decreased in ~30% at 48 h post-exercise; delayed onset muscle soreness increased ~300%, which remained at 96 h post-exercise. Conclusions: These reflect that the decline in muscular performance is due to the changes in peak torque and muscular work, which has greater implications on muscle function. No changes were detected in time to peak torque. The alterations in muscular performance variables are accompanied by delayed onset muscle soreness which has also a negative impact on force production (29% of the drop on peak torque is explain by soreness intensity).

Resumen Introducción: Los estudios de impacto funcional del dolor muscular de aparición tardía (DMAT) se han limitado a describir la disminución de la contracción isométrica máxima, pero aún no se ha examinado el trabajo muscular y el tiempo del torque máximo. Objetivo: Describir los cambios inducidos por una sesión de ejercicio excéntrico sobre el rendimiento muscular y DMAT. Método: se realizó un estudio cuasi-experimental, los participantes fueron veinte hombres sanos; edad media 21 DE 0,34, todos los sujetos realizaron 200 contracciones excéntricas del cuádriceps a 120°/s. Se evaluó el torque pico isométrico e isocinético, el trabajo muscular, el tiempo hasta el torque máximo, DMAT y la actividad de la creatina quinasa al inicio, 48 h y 96 h después del ejercicio, el rendimiento muscular se evaluó con un dinamómetro isocinético y DOMS con una escala análoga visual (EAV). Resultados: en relación con la línea de base, el torque pico isométrico e isocinético y el trabajo muscular disminuyeron en ~ 30 % a las 48 h post-ejercicio; El dolor muscular de aparición tardía aumentó ~300 %, que permaneció 96 h después del ejercicio. Conclusiones: los resultados reflejan que la disminución del rendimiento muscular se debe a los cambios en el torque pico y trabajo muscular, lo que tiene mayores implicaciones en la función muscular. No se detectaron cambios en el tiempo hasta el torque máximo. Las alteraciones en las variables de rendimiento muscular se acompañan de DMAT que también tiene un impacto negativo en la producción de fuerza (el 29 % de la caída en el torque máximo se explica por la intensidad del dolor).

Relationship Between The Thigh Anthropometric Measurements With Isokinetic Performance Of Knee Muscles

Background: Strength measurement is an essential component of assessment in rehabilitation. However, there may be many factors that may alter muscle performance, among which anthropometric values play a significant role. Therefore, the objective of this study is to find out the correlation between thigh anthropometric measurements with the knee isokinetic muscle performance. Methods: Eighteen young, healthy male adults, whose mean age was of 21.22 ± 1.39 were included. Anthropometric measurements like height, weight, thigh girth, and femoral length were correlated with isokinetic strength of knee flexor and extensor muscles. The variables collected in isokinetic measurements; used for analysis were peak torque at three angular velocities of 60°/s, 120°/s, and 180°/s. Results: The Pearson correlation between the thigh girth and isokinetic peak torque at angular velocities of 600/s, 1200/s, and 1800/s for knee extensors were, r = 0.52, 0.69 and 0.73 whereas for knee flexors it was r = 0.53, 0.24 and 0.44 respectively which showed moderate to high correlation when the level of significance was kept at 0.05. However, the correlation between the femoral length and isokinetic peak torque at three angular velocities for knee muscles showed a weak positive correlation only. Conclusion: Study results show that there is a moderate to strong positive correlation exists between thigh girth and isokinetic peak torque of knee musculature, whereas there is only a weak correlation exists between femoral length and isokinetic peak torque of knee musculature. Therefore, it reveals that the length of the extremity does not seem to influence the outcome of isokinetic measurement values. In contrast, the girth of the muscle can influence the outcome of the isokinetic measurement values, especially for the knee joint.

Effects of BTE System Intensive Training on Upper Limbs after Cervical Spinal Cord Injury / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To investigate the effect of BTE system intensive training on upper limbs for cervical spinal cord injured patients in various courses. Methods:From June, 2019 to January, 2020, 60 inpatients with traumatic C6-7 spinal cord injury were selected into sub-acute group (one to two months after surgery, n = 15), recovery group (three to six months after surgery, n = 15), stable group (over six months after surgery, n = 15) according to the course of disease, and control group (over six months after surgery, n = 15). The control group received comprehensive rehabilitation, while the other groups received upper limbs intensive training on BTE system in addition, for four weeks. They were assessed with Upper Extremity Motor Score (UEMS) and Functional Independence Measure (FIM), meassured isometric peak torque (IPT) and isotonic extreme muscle endurance (IEE) of bilateral elbow extensors before and after treatment. Results:All the indexes improved after treatment (t > 3.500, P < 0.01), and they were significantly different among the groups (F > 9.257, P < 0.001), in which, it was the most of UEMS and IPT in the sub-acute group, and IEE and FIM in the recovery group. Conclusion:BTE system intensive training is effective on upper limbs after cervical spinal cord injury. Sub-acute patients may improve more in motor function and explosive power, while patients at recovery stage do better in endurance and activities of daily living. Even stable patients can benefit from it somehow.

Combined Effects of Plant-based Protein Supplementation with 8-week Resistance Training on Muscular Strength, Protein Catabolism, Immune Functions and Bone Metabolism Markers in Adult Males

@#Introduction: This study investigated the effect of combined plant-based protein supplementation and resistance training on muscular strength, blood markers of protein catabolism, immune function, and bone metabolism in sedentary adult males. Methods: In this randomised, double-blinded study, 28 healthy males aged 19 – 29 years old were equally assigned into four groups: a combined plant-based protein with resistance training (PBPEX), plant-based protein alone (PBP), resistance training alone (EX) and control (C). Mode of resistance training was flat barbell press, machine shoulder press, wide grip lateral pull-down, seated cable row, barbell back squat, leg press and leg extension. The 8-week resistance training involved three sets of 60-70% of one-repetition maximum (1-RM) at 4-6 repetition/set/mode per session, three sessions/week. Participants in PBPEX and PBP groups consumed a plant-based protein supplement consisted of 9.8 g soy and pea protein for seven days/week. Results: PBPEX showed significant increases (p<0.01) in the knee and shoulder flexion peak torque compared to EX groups, respectively. PBP showed a significantly higher level (p<0.05) of serum urea, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) compared to other groups. There were no changes in immune function and bone metabolism markers between pre- and post-exercise in all groups. Conclusions: These findings implied that a combination of plant-based protein supplementation and resistance training elicited greater beneficial effects on muscular strength than resistance training alone and plant-based protein supplementation alone. Therefore, combined plant-based protein with resistance training may be recommended in planning exercise and nutritional programme for sedentary male adults.

Effects of Isokinetic Flexion and Extension Training at Different Angular Velocities on Core Muscles of Patients with Low Back Pain / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To explore the effect of isokinetic muscle strength training at different angular velocities on the core muscles of patients with low back pain, and to find out the better angular velocity. Methods:From January, 2016 to June, 2018, 60 patients with chronic low back pain were randomly divided into three groups, with 20 cases in each group. Group A (control group) only received routine rehabilitation therapy. Additionally, groups B and C received isokinetic muscle strength training at 30°/s and 90°/s, respectively, three times a week for four weeks. They were measured peak torque and average power before and after training. Results:After training, the peak torques and powers of both flexor and extensor were higher in groups B and C than in group A (P < 0.05), the peak torques of both flexor and extensor were lower in group C than in group B (P < 0.05), however, no significant difference was found in powers of both flexor and extensor between groups B and C (P > 0.05). After training, the score of VAS decreased in groups B and C (t > 4.098, P < 0.01), and was lower in groups B and C than in group A (P < 0.05), however, no significant difference was found between groups B and C (P > 0.05). Conclusion:Isokinetic muscle strength training could increase the peak torque and power of trunk flexor and extensor in patients with low back pain, in which lower angular velocity (30°/s) has a better effect.

Characteristics of Trunk Muscles in Isokinetic Training at Different Velocities / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To study the presentation and changes of trunk flexors and extensors in isokinetic training at different velocities. Methods:From March to September, 2018, 27 health volunteers were enrolled. Their peak torques of trunk flexors and extensors at 30°/s, 60°/s, and 90°/s were collected. Results:The peak torques of trunk flexors and extensors slightly decreased with the increasing of velocities, but no significant difference was found (F < 2.070, P > 0.05). At 30°/s and 60°/s, the peak torque of extensors was higher than that of flexors (t > 3.138, P < 0.01); at 90°/s, no significant difference was found in the peak torque between flexors and extensors (t = -0.946, P > 0.05). The ratios of the peak torque of flexors to extensors were 0.79∶1 both at 30°/s and 60°/s. The peak torque of flexors decreased in the tenth contraction compared with the second contraction at all the angular velocities, however, it was significantly different only at 30°/s (t = 5.159, P < 0.01); meanwhile, the peak torque of extensors increased with significance only at 60°/s (t = -2.142, P < 0.05). Conclusion:At 30°/s and 60°/s, there might be a linear relation between trunk flexors and extensors, and the peak torque ratios of trunk flexors to extensors were approximately the same.

Relationship between Hamstring Muscle Thickness and Knee Flexion Torque and Rate of Torque Development / 대한스포츠의학회지

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between hamstring muscle thickness and knee flexion peak torque, and rate of torque development (RTD) calculated during 0–50 ms (RTD50) and 0–200 ms (RTD200).METHODS: Thirty-six active individuals' dominant side hamstring thickness were measured using portable ultrasound device. Participants performed maximal isometric voluntary contraction (MVIC) of knee flexion. Peak torque was identified as the maximum torque during MVIC testing. RTD was calculated initial 50 ms and 200 ms after the onset of joint torque. Pearson's correlation (r) coefficients were utilized to assess relationships between muscle thickness and knee flexion peak torque, RTD50 and RTD200. The significant level of hypothesis verification is set-up as α=0.05.RESULTS: Greater peak torque and RTD200 was associated with greater muscle thickness of semitendinosus and semimembranosus (p<0.05). Greater RTD50 was associated with greater muscle thickness of semitendinosus only. Biceps femoris thickness was not associated with knee flexion peak torque, RTD50, and RTD200.CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the training specific hamstring muscle (medial hamstrings) for improving muscle thickness would be effective for increasing knee flexion peak torque and RTD.

Correlations between the strength of knee extensor and flexor muscles and jump performance in volleyball players: a review / Relação entre a força dos músculos extensores e flexores de joelho e o desempenho de saltos em jogadores de voleibol: uma revisão

ABSTRACT Jump tests and isokinetic dynamometer assessments are widely used in sports to identify parameters of strength and power development. Understanding the relationship between these variables can help in the selection of more specific parameters to assess the strength of knee joint muscles on isokinetic dynamometer in volleyball players. The objective of this literature review was to summarize studies that have analyzed the relationship between performance in jump tests with strength generation capacity in knee isokinetic dynamometry assessments among volleyball players, besides investigating whether muscle imbalances of the knee joint can interfere with jump performance. The reviewed studies resulted from a search on PubMed and Scielo databases. A total of 106 articles were found, 6 of which were used for final analysis. The capacity to generate strength in knee isokinetic dynamometry assessments correlates with jump performance. Strength imbalances from one limb to another do not seem to interfere with jump performance. Strength imbalances between knee flexors and extensors may be related to the functionality of volleyball players.

RESUMO Os testes de saltos e as avaliações no dinamômetro isocinético são amplamente utilizados no esporte para a identificação dos parâmetros de desenvolvimento de força e potência. A compreensão da relação entre essas variáveis pode auxiliar nas escolhas de parâmetros mais específicos na avaliação da força dos músculos da articulação do joelho no dinamômetro isocinético para os jogadores de voleibol. O objetivo da presente revisão de literatura foi reunir estudos que analisaram as relações entre o desempenho dos testes de saltos com a capacidade de geração de força em avaliações de dinamometria isocinética de joelho em jogadores de voleibol, além de investigar se os desequilíbrios musculares da articulação do joelho podem interferir no desempenho dos saltos. Os estudos revisados são provenientes da busca realizada nas bases de dados PubMed e Scielo. Foram encontrados 106 artigos dos quais 6 artigos foram utilizados para a análise final. A capacidade de gerar força nas avaliações de dinamometria isocinética de joelho é relacionada com o desempenho de salto. Os desequilíbrios de força de um membro para outro parecem não interferir no desempenho dos saltos. Os desquilíbrios de força entre os flexores e extensores de joelho podem ter relação com a funcionalidade dos jogadores de voleibol.

The Timing of Return to Sports after Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in Elite Athletes: A Study Based on Isokinetic Knee Muscle Strength and Multiple Hop Tests / 中国运动医学杂志

Objective To compare the knee function recovery at different times of returning to sport after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction(ACLR) among elite athletes using knee isokinetic muscle strength test and various hop test.Methods Forty-one elite athletes(14 males,27 females,mean age 22.6 ± 4.1 years) undergoing ACLR between January 2013 and September 2014 were chosen from the database of the National Institute of Sports Medicine and Shanghai Huashan Hospital.Rehabilitation was performed using the same protocol by professional physiotherapists and trainers,who recorded the time of returning to sport of each athlete.One week prior to the scheduled return,bilateral knee isokinetic muscle strength test(test value:peak torque;angle velocity:60°/s,180°/s;motion:flexion,extension) and four hop tests(single hop for distance,side-to-side hop,up-down hop and 8 hop) were applied with the limb symmetry index(LSI) calculated.The athletes were then grouped by their returntime referring to surgery into the premature group(6～8 months),timely return group(9～12 months) and delayed group(over 12 months).The tests results were recorded and compared among the three groups.Results Fourteen athletes were selected into the premature group,with 19 in the timely group and 8 in the delayed group.The average LSI of 60°/s flexion peak torque of the premature group (87.4％ ± 7.5％) was significantly lower than the timely group(95.8％ ± 6.6％) and the delayed group(96.0％ ± 2.4％) (P＜0.01).Significant differences were observed between the premature group and delayed group regarding the 60° extension peak torque(85.8％ ± 9.4％ and 94.8％ ± 4.8％,P＜0.05),180°/s flexion peak torque(90.7％ ± 8.7％ and 101.4％ ± 6.8％,P＜0.05),and 180°/s extension peak torque (90.6％ ± 5.2％ and 97.8％ ± 5.6％,P＜0.05).The average LSL of the premature group at single hop for distance,side-to-side hop and up-down hop(93.A％ ± 8.5％,84.7％ ± 7.3％ and 112.5％ ± 5.7％) was significantly lower than that of the timely group(95.7％ ± 6.0％,104.2％ ± 4.3％ and 105.3％ ± 7.9％) and the delayed group regarding(98.1％ ± 1.9％,104.7％ ± 4.0％ and 106.3％ ± 7.4％) (P＜0.01 for all).The relative peak torque of 60°/s extension of the premature group(2.48 ± 0.58 Nm/kg) was significantly lower than the delayed group(3.21 ± 0.51 Nm/kg) (P＜0.01).Conclusions For elite athletes,returning to sport within 9 months after ACLR results in insufficient restoration of the knee function.Delayed return to sport doesn't improve the outcomes of hop tests,but can enhance the maximum extension torque peak,which needs further study.

Norm-Referenced Criteria for Isokinetic Strength of the Lower Limbs for the Korean High School Baseball Players / 대한스포츠의학회지

This study concerns norm-referenced criteria for isokinetic strength of the lower limbs for the Korean high school baseball players. Two hundred one high school baseball players were participated in this study. They didn't have any medical problem at the lower limbs. Each test was conducted four times in the ankle plantar flexion/dorsiflexion test at 30°/sec speed, knee flexion/ extension test was conducted four times at 60°/sec speed. Humac Norm (CSMI, USA) system was used to obtained the value of peak torque, peak torque % body weight. The results were presented as a norm-referenced criterion value using 5-point scale of cajori, by 5 group (6.06%, 24.17%, 38.30%, 24.17%, and 6.06%) and a few suggestions from this study as follows. The provided criterion of peak torque and peak torque % body weight are very useful information for baseball palyers, baseball coach, athletic trainers and sports injury rehabilitation experts, to utilize as an objective clinical assessment data.

Avaliação isocinética do tornozelo de pacientes com artrite reumatoide / Isokinetic assessment of ankles in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

RESUMOIntroduçãoO pé e o tornozelo na artrite reumatoide passam por sinovite altamente destrutiva, com perda de força muscular.ObjetivoAvaliar a força muscular do tornozelo de pacientes com artrite reumatoide com base em parâmetros da dinamometria isocinética.Materiais e métodosForam estudados 30 pacientes com diagnóstico de artrite reumatoide. O estudo envolveu 30 indivíduos saudáveis (grupo controle) pareados por idade, sexo, etnia, índice de massa corporal e dominância de membro inferior. Todos os indivíduos foram submetidos a avaliação da flexão dorsal, flexão plantar, inversão e eversão com o dinamômetro isocinético Cybex Norm. As variáveis foram comparadas entre os grupos artrite reumatoide e controle e entre os tornozelos direito e esquerdo. Foi determinada a relação de força muscular flexores dorsais/flexores plantares e inversores/eversores.ResultadosOs pacientes com artrite reumatoide tiveram resultados estatisticamente piores no teste de dinamometria isocinética para todos os movimentos do tornozelo. A relação de força muscular entre flexores dorsais e flexores plantares foi diferente nos dois grupos. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas na relação entre inversores e eversores. Nos dois grupos, os músculos flexores plantares eram estatisticamente mais fortes do que os flexores dorsais.ConclusãoOs pacientes com artrite reumatoide têm pior desempenho na dinamometria isocinética em todos os movimentos do tornozelo do que os indivíduos do grupo controle. Foram observados resultados semelhantes no teste isocinético para o lado direito e esquerdo, em ambos os grupos, com poucas exceções. A avaliação isocinética não representou risco adicional, como dor importante ou atividade inflamatória, em pacientes com artrite reumatoide.

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe foot and ankle in rheumatoid arthritis undergo highly destructive synovitis with loss of muscle strength.ObjectiveTo evaluate the muscle strength of ankles in patients with rheumatoid arthritis based on isokinetic dynamometry parameters.Materials and methodsThirty patients with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis involving the ankle(s) and 30 healthy subjects (control group) matched for age, gender, race, body mass index and lower limb dominance were studied. Dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, inversion and eversion were evaluated in all subjects on an isokinetic Cybex Norm dynamometer. The variables were compared between the rheumatoid arthritis and control groups and between the right and left ankles, and the dorsiflexor/plantar flexor and invertor/evertor muscle strength ratio was determined.ResultsPatients with rheumatoid arthritis performed statistically worse in the isokinetic dynamometry test for all ankle movements. The muscle strength ratio between dorsiflexors and plantar flexors was different in the two groups. No significant differences were observed in the invertor and evertor ratios. In the two groups the plantar flexor musculature was statistically stronger than dorsiflexors.ConclusionWe conclude that patients with rheumatoid arthritis perform worse in isokinetic dynamometry regarding all ankle movements than control subjects, with similar isokinetic test results being observed for the right and left side in both groups, with few exceptions. Isokinetic evaluation posed no additional risk such as important pain or inflammatory activity to patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Correlation study on knee extensor/flexor strength and knee osteoarthritis / 医用生物力学

Objective To determine key muscles during muscle strength training of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) by studying the correlation of KOA symptoms and disease stages with knee extensor/flexor strength. Methods Ninety-nine community volunteers were recruited and stratified into healthy group, single KOA group, and bilateral KOA group. The relationship between isokinetic extensor/flexor strength and KOA symptom, full-body aerobic exercise capacity, joint function were analyzed by knee isokinetic muscle strength test, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), 6-minute walk test, and CS-30 test. ResultsKnee isokinetic extensor peak torque of the symptomatic leg was significantly lower than that of the asymptomatic leg in single KOA group. There were significant differences in knee isokinetic extensor/flexor peak torque of both the severe and mild symptomatic leg in bilateral KOA group. Knee isokinetic extensor peak torque in bilateral KOA group was significantly lower than that in healthy group. Knee isokinetic extensor/flexor peak torque of KOA patients was positively related to 6-minute walk test, CS-30 test, while negatively related to age. Knee isokinetic extensor peak torque was negatively related to pain score and physical function score of WOMAC. Conclusions Both knee extensor and flexor strength are related to KOA. Therefore, during KOA rehabilitation therapies, muscle training for knee extensors (particularly quadriceps femoris muscles) and knee flexors (hamstring muscles, gastrocnemius muscles) need to be valued.

The Role of Antigravity Treadmill in Haemophilic Children Aged 8 to 11 Years with Unilateral Knee Haemarthrosis without Radiological Involvement.

Background: Recurrent joint bleeding in children with hemophilia leads to joint damage with pain, loss of range of motion and function. Antigravity treadmill (AGT) allows unloading of the lower extremities during exercise in a pressurized treadmill chamber. Aim: To investigate the effect of AGT on muscle strength and functional balance in children with hemophilic knee arthritis. Study Design: Prospective, randomized controlled study. Place and Duration of Study: The outpatient clinic, Medical rehabilitation hospital, and King Fahd Hospital, Almadinah Almonawarah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, between January 2015 and Mars 2015. Methods: Thirty hemophilic male children with unilateral knee heamarthrosis in the age ranged from 8 to 11 years old were randomly allocated into two equal groups. The control group (group A) received traditional exercise program, while the study group (group B) received AGT gait training added to the same exercise program of group A. Training was applied three times per week for twelve consecutive weeks. All children were assessed at baseline and after 36-session. Assessment included peak torque of quadriceps and hamstring muscles using Biodex Isokinetic Dynamometer and functional balance using Pediatric Berg balance scale (PBBS). Results: Significant differences were observed in both groups when comparing their pre and post treatment mean values of all measuring variables (p<0.05). Peak torque of the quadriceps changed from (32.60±1.183, 32.933±1.533) to (38.40±1.681, 40.466±1.060) and peak torque of the hamstring changed from (25.00±1.81265, 25.933±2.0517) to (32.533±2.474, 35.933±2.631) for the control and study group respectively, indicating more improvement in favor of the study group. Both groups demonstrated a significant increase in functional balance, with more improvement in favor of group B. Conclusion: It can be concluded that gait training using AGT may be used as a therapeutic intervention for improving muscle performance and functional balance in children with hemophilic knee arthritis. Although our sample was not large, the effect size was moderate to large (0.85 and 0.83) for the knee extensors and flexors respectively and 0.553 for PBBS.

Effect of Isokinetic Training Concentrically and Eccentrically on Knee Peak Torque and Hamstring/Quadricep Ratio / 中国康复理论与实践

@#Objective To analyze the data of concentric (c) and eccentric (e) peak torque of hamstring (H) and quadricep (Q) in differ-ent gender and angle after 4-week concentric and eccentric isokinetic exercise training on knee, in order to provide suggestions for the knee extensor and flexor in rehabilitation exercise prescription. Methods 28 healthy college students from May to June 2014 in our college partic-ipated in maximum concentric (n=14) or eccentric (n=14) resistance training of the right knee extensors and flexors 3 times per week for 4 weeks. The concentric strength was measured with BIODEX isokinetic dynamometer assessment system 4 at 30 °/s, 60 °/s, 90 °/s, and ec-centric strength was measured at 60 °/s, 120 °/s, 180 °/s. PT, H/Q (He/Qc, Hc/Qc) ratio and H/H (He/Hc) or Q/Q(Qe/Qc) ratio were ana-lyzed. Results Concentric isokinetic training could improve the Hc and He at 60 °/s and 90 °/s (P<0.05), and the Qe and Qc increased at 30 °/s, 60 °/s, 90 °/s respectively (P<0.01). There was no significant improvement after eccentric training (P>0.05). After concentric isokinet-ic training, the He/Qc ratio decreased at 90 °/s (P<0.05), the Hc/Qc ratio decreased at 30 °/s (P<0.05). However, there was no difference in He/Qc and Hc/Qc after eccentric contraction (P>0.05). The Qc/Qe ratio increased at 60 °/s and 90 °/s (P<0.05), and the Hc/He ratio de-creased at 90 °/s (P<0.05) after concentric training. There was no difference in Hc/He and Qc/Qe after eccentric contraction (P>0.05). There were significant differences in Hc, He, Qc, Qe and He/Qc ratio between different genders (P<0.05). Conclusion Concentric training and ec-centric training have different influences on the muscle strength after 4 weeks training. Eccentric training only can reduce the knee stability. Hc/He ratio and Qc/Qe ratio can be used to evaluate the knee muscle function. Gender should be considered into training.

Age-graded reductions in quadriceps muscle strength and peak aerobic capacity in COPD / Reduções graduadas por idade na força muscular do quadríceps e no pico de consumo de oxigênio na DPOC

BACKGROUND: Reductions in quadriceps strength and peak aerobic capacity (VO2) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have been studied in relatively small samples over a short period. Moreover, results were not corrected for confounding variables, such as lean muscle mass, gender, and gas transfer capacity of the lungs. OBJECTIVES: To compare quadriceps muscle strength and peak V.O2 in women and men while stratifying for age and gas transfer capacity. We then corrected for lower-limb lean muscle mass to see whether and to what extent the age-graded reduction remained evident. METHODS: Retrospectively, data of 374 women and 593 men with COPD were analyzed: lung function, current drug therapy, quadriceps strength, peak V.O2, lower-limb lean muscle mass, and gas transfer capacity. RESULTS: Quadriceps strength and peak V.O2 were lower in older women and men with a gas transfer capacity of <50% predicted, also after adjustment for lower-limb lean muscle mass. Moreover, quadriceps strength and peak V.O2 were lower in older women and men with a gas transfer capacity of <50% predicted, also after adjustment for lower-limb lean muscle mass. Moreover, quadriceps strength and peak V.O2 were related to age in COPD, particularly in women and men with a gas transfer capacity of >50% predicted. Yet, counter to our hypothesis, lower-limb lean muscle mass did not show an age-graded reduction and, in turn, could not account for the relationship of age with quadriceps strength and peak V.O2. CONCLUSIONS: It is apparent that there is an age-graded reduction in skeletal muscle function in patients with COPD. Therefore, prevention of an age-graded decline in quadriceps muscle strength and peak V.O2 may need to become an outcome of pulmonary rehabilitation of patients with COPD.

CONTEXTUALIZAÇÃO: As reduções da força do quadríceps e do pico de consumo de oxigênio (V.O2) em pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) são estudadas em amostras relativamente pequenas e por curto período de tempo. Além disso, os resultados não são corrigidos por variáveis confundidoras, como conteúdo de massa magra, gênero e capacidade de difusão pulmonar. OBJETIVOS: Comparar a força muscular do quadríceps e o pico de V.O2 em mulheres e homens estratificados por idade e capacidade de difusão pulmonar e, então, corrigir pela massa magra dos membros inferiores para verificar se e até que ponto a redução graduada por idade permaneceu evidente. MÉTODOS: Retrospectivamente, foram analisados dados de 374 mulheres e 593 homens com DPOC, referentes a: função pulmonar, tratamento medicamentoso, força do quadríceps, pico de V.O2, massa magra dos membros inferiores e capacidade de difusão pulmonar. RESULTADOS: A força muscular do quadríceps e o pico de V.O2 foram menores em idosos com capacidade de difusão pulmonar <50% do previsto, mesmo após correção pela massa magra dos membros inferiores. Além disso, a força do quadríceps e o pico de V.O2 correlacionaram-se com a idade, especialmente em homens e mulheres com capacidade de difusão >50% do previsto. No entanto, a massa magra dos membros inferiores não demonstrou redução graduada por idade e não justificou a relação da idade com a força do quadríceps e o pico de V.O2, contrariando a nossa hipótese. CONCLUSÕES: Aparentemente, há uma redução graduada por idade na função musculoesquelética em pacientes com DPOC. Portanto, a prevenção do declínio graduado por idade na força do quadríceps e no pico de V.O2 deveria ser um objetivo da reabilitação pulmonar em pacientes com DPOC.

Isokinetic assessment of the hip muscles in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the difference in isokinetic strength of hip muscles between patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) and matched healthy controls, and to establish the correlation between this isokinetic strength and pain and function in patients with knee OA. METHODS: 25 patients with a diagnosis of unilateral knee OA, 25 patients with bilateral knee OA, and 50 matched controls were evaluated using the visual analog scale for pain, knee Lequesne index, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities questionnaire and an isokinetic test. RESULTS: The groups were matched for age, gender and body mass index. The results of the isokinetic test revealed lower peak torque of the hip in patients with OA of the knee than in the control group for all movements studied. Strong correlations were found between the peak torque, visual analog scale and function. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with OA of the knee exhibit lower isokinetic strength in the hip muscles than healthy control subjects. Strengthening the muscles surrounding the hip joint may help to decrease pain in people with knee OA. Some correlations between pain/function and peak torque were found.

Isokinetic Assessment of Lower Extremities in Elite Fencers / 中国运动医学杂志

Objective The purpose of this study was to assess isokinetic strength of lower extremities and find out weak muscles in Chinese elite fencers. Methods Bilateral peak torque of flexors and extensors of hip, knee and ankle in 26 national fencers,aged 23.1±2.36 yrs,were tested isokinetically at speeds of 60 and 240 deg/sec. Results (1)Hip: compared with 60 deg/sec,peak torques of bilateral extensors significantly decreased at 240 deg/sec (P0.05); At two velocities, flexor peak torques in leading leg of men fencers were significantly higher than trailing one(P0.05);Flexor/extensor torque ratio was lower than normal at two velocities in all fencers. (2)Knee: strength of flexors and extensors in 60 deg/ sec and extensor in 240 deg/sec of men fencers were significantly different between leading and trailing legs (P0.05); ankle flexor/extensor ratio were lower than normal at two velocities in all fencers. Conclusion (1)Bilateral asymmetry in isokinetic muscle strength exists in men fencers,but not obvious in women fencers. (2)Weak muscles for fencers were hip extensor,knee flexor,especially in leading knee and ankle extensor.

UPPER EXTREMITY MUSCLE ACTIVITIES AND STRENGTHS IN OVERHEAD THROWER DURING ECCENTRIC MUSCLE ACTION / 体力科学

PURPOSE : To determine the patterns of electromyographic (EMG) responses and torques of upper extremity muscles in overhead throwers during maximal, eccentric muscle action for shoulder flexion (Flex_Ecc), abduction (Abd_Ecc) and diagonal activities (Dia_Ecc) with full glenohumeral internal rotation, at 60, 120, and 180°/s on the dynamometer.METHODS : Seven asymptomatic subjects (7 men, 4 women) who participate in overhead sports at least three days a week volunteered to participate in this study. Subjects were randomly performed with the test procedure which consisted of at least 5 grade maximal-effort repetitions on the three different testing conditions, at 60, 120, and 180°/s on the dynamometer, while we assessed muscle activation of the anterior deltoid (AD), middle deltoid (MD), posterior deltoid (PD), upper trapezius (UT), middle trapezius (MT), lower trapezius (LT), and biceps brachii (BB) muscles by surface electromyography. EMG data was expressed as a percentage of maximum voluntary isometric contraction (%MVIC) that was obtained from the highest root mean square (RMS, 50 ms) of each muscle and was normalized and averaged.RESULT : AD muscle elicited lower muscle activity during Dia_Ecc than Flex_Ecc and Abd_Ecc (P＜0.05) while the MD, PD, UT, MT, and LT muscles elicited overall greater muscle activities during Dia_Ecc. MD and MT muscle activities were significantly greater for the faster speed than for the slower speed as 60°/s during Abd_Ecc (P＜0.05). Peak torque generated greater muscle strength for Dia_Ecc than Flex_Ecc and Abd_Ecc, and it was significantly greater for the faster speed than slower speed during Dia_Ecc (P＜0.05).CONCLUSION : Posterior upper extremity muscle activities and peak torque values were found to be dependent on eccentric muscle action for diagonal shoulder activity at the faster speed. This study provided evidence that isokinetic eccentric muscle strength testing of the posterior upper extremity muscle was effective to develop of a proper program for overhead sports athletes require forceful stability during deceleration phase.