Abstract

The test-retest reliability of a specific test protocol for the measurement of peak torque of the knee flexors using a Kin/Com dynamometer was evaluated. The maximum voluntary torque generated by the left knee flexors during constant velocity resisted-muscle shortening (RMS) and muscle lengthening (RML) was measured in a sitting position in 11 healthy women with no history of knee pathology. Each subject performed two tests at each of two velocities (30 degrees/sec and 180 degrees/sec) in a single session. All subjects repeated these four tests one week later. A test consisted of four complete RMS/RML cycles through a range of 65 degrees. The peak torque generated from each test was used to meausre test-retest reliability. All data were gravity compensated. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCS <1,1>) were calculated from ANOVA tests for RML and RMS at both velocities. The within sessions ICCs ranged from .94 to .98 for 30 degrees/sec and from .92 to .97 at 180 degrees/sec. The ICCs between sessions were generally lower and ranged from .79 to .90 for 30 degrees/sec, and from .75 to .88 for 180 degrees/sec. It is concluded that using these test protocols, peak torques for both RMS and RML can be measured with a high degree of reliability at two commonly used velocities. Verf.-Referat