BACKGROUND: Isokinetics offer a range of applications in hospital, therapy and training. The aim of this study was to determine, how the torques (Nm) of trunk flexion/-extension and trunk rotation behave at different contraction types (eccentrically, isometrically, concentrically) and different speeds. METHOD: Therefore different isokinetic testing procedures were performed in 34 subjects (17 female). RESULTS: The angle (°) in which the max. torque (Nm) is measured is inconsistent for the trunk flexion. Here the maximum values for different contraction forms and speeds of movement were found between +1,73 and -19,24°. For extension, however, the max values were achieved between +6,12 and +17,42° (hip angle < 90°). For trunk rotation the highest values were found, when the torso was rotated to the opposite side of the movement. For example, at left rotation the maximum values were found between -12,91 and -18,97°. As a recommendation for the test speed 30°/sec. is stated for both movements concentric and eccentric, since these data have a high accuracy (best interpretation) and this speed was felt to be pleasant. The highest torques were usually measured at 30°/sec. eccentric, predominant values for 15°/sec. eccentric and isometric were significantly lower. CONCLUSION: These results should contribute to an efficient application of the IsoMed 2000 testing and training device in clinical, therapeutical and sport scientific fields.
BACKGROUND: Isokinetics offer a range of applications in hospital, therapy and training. The aim of this study was to determine, how the torques (Nm) of trunk flexion/-extension and trunk rotation behave at different contraction types (eccentrically, isometrically, concentrically) and different speeds. METHOD: Therefore different isokinetic testing procedures were performed in 34 subjects (17 female). RESULTS: The angle (°) in which the max. torque (Nm) is measured is inconsistent for the trunk flexion. Here the maximum values for different contraction forms and speeds of movement were found between +1,73 and -19,24°. For extension, however, the max values were achieved between +6,12 and +17,42° (hip angle < 90°). For trunk rotation the highest values were found, when the torso was rotated to the opposite side of the movement. For example, at left rotation the maximum values were found between -12,91 and -18,97°. As a recommendation for the test speed 30°/sec. is stated for both movements concentric and eccentric, since these data have a high accuracy (best interpretation) and this speed was felt to be pleasant. The highest torques were usually measured at 30°/sec. eccentric, predominant values for 15°/sec. eccentric and isometric were significantly lower. CONCLUSION: These results should contribute to an efficient application of the IsoMed 2000 testing and training device in clinical, therapeutical and sport scientific fields.