Analysis of Torque Curve in Isokinetic Knee Dynamometer

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the patterns of isokinetic knee torque curves in normal population and determine the characteristics of those curves. METHOD: Two hundred and eightly-six normal subjects were included. The isokinetic knee torque curves were divided into three parts; to the angle of peak torque generation, to the point 10~20 degrees prior to end of joint motion, and to the end of joint motion. Each part was classified as convex(1), flat(2) and concave(3) type according to the shape. The curves were named such as 1-2-2 in order. Types of the curves, peak torque, angle of knee at peak torque, total acceleration energy, age, and sex of the subjects were compared. RESULTS: For knee extensors, frequencies of the curve types were 1-2-2(A), 1-2-1(B), 1-3-1(C), and 1-3-2(D). Mean ages of type A and B curves were slightly higher than types of C and D. Mean peak torque was greatest in type D. For knee flexors, the frequencies were 1-2-2(A), 1-2-1(B), and 1-1-2(C). Female predominance were found in type B while type C was found mostly in male. Mean peak torque was greatest in type C. CONCLUSION: The most common torque curve type was 1-2-2 for knee extensors and flexors. Torque curve types of knee extensors showed differences in age and torque curve types of knee flexors showed differences in sexual distribution.