Isokinetic testing in

Sports

Dr. Rajal Sukhiyaji

IntroductionConcept of isokineticsWhat is isokinetics?OKC and CKCPurposes of isokinetic

testingProtocol of isokinetic testing Isokinetic data and analysisAdvantages LimitationContraindication

“James Perrine” first introduced the concept of Isokinetic exercise to the physical therapy profession in the late 1960’s.

Isokinetic means constant speed: “Iso” means constant and “kinetic” means movement.

Concept of isokineticsTraditional weight lifting exercises -

variable speeds at a fixed resistance or weight.

Isokinetic exercises - at a dynamic preset fixed speed with resistance that is accommodating throughout the range of motion.

What is Isokinetics??Fixed velocity – Ranging from 1 degree per

second to approximately 1000 degree per second.

Accommodating resistance Isokinetic dynamometers - used are

Biodex, Humac, Cybex, Kin-Com, Lido

OKC & CKCOKC - Open kinetic chain exercise in which

the distal component of the limb is not fixed or weight bearing but free in space.

CKC - Closed kinetic chain exercise in which distal fixed end of the limb may be either stationary or moveable

Rationale for incorporating OKC into assessment and rehabilitation

Isolated testing of specific muscle group Muscle groups away from specific site of injury

must be assessed CKC – not demonstrate true weakness Provide clinical control Normalize the motor control pattern Efficacy of rehabilitation

Objectively assess muscular performance.

The Isokinetic device is attached to a computer, that assesses the torque output of the muscles being testing.

Isokinetic testing allows for a variety of testing protocols ranging from strength, strength ratios between two muscle groups, power, and endurance.

Primary recommendation – perform velocity spectrum testing

To obtain objective records To screen athletes To establish a database To quantify objective information To obtain objective serial reassessment To develop normative data To correlate isokinetic torque curves with

pathologic condition To use the shape of the curve to individualize

the rehabilitation program.

Educate the athlete Testing uninvolved side first Providing appropriate warm ups at each

speed Verbal commands Use standardized protocol Calibrated equipment Proper stabilization

Isokinetic data and analysisPeak torqueAngular positionAccelerationDeceleration Load rangTorque – velocity relationshipAverage powerShape of the torque curves

Criteria for interpreting isokinetic tests results

Bilateral comparisonUnilateral ratiosTorque to body weight relationshipComparison to normative data

Efficiency Safety Accommodating resistance Decreased joint compressive forces

at higher speeds Physiologic overflow through the

velocity spectrum Velocity spectrum training Minimal postexercise soreness with

concentric isokinetic contraction Computer feedback provided

Large and expensive Set up time and

assistance required Isolated joint/muscle

testingNon functional pattern of

movement Increased compressive

forces at slower speeds

Contraindication Soft tissue healing constraintsPain Limited ROMEffusion Joint instabilityAcute strains and sprains

Physical rehabilitation of the injured athlete, third edition, James R. Andrews, M.D., et al.

Isokinetic Dynamometry Applications and Limitations, V. Baltzopoulos and D.A . Brodie

Isokinetics in Human Performance, By Lee E. Brown

Isokinetic Exercise, By Robert Donatelli, PhD, PT, Sportsmd health and performance