Reliability of lower extremity muscle strength measurements with handheld dynamometry in stroke patients during the acute phase: a pilot reliability study.
Hsiao-Ching Yen, Jer-Junn Luh, Ting Teng and 4 others
PMID 28265165WHAT IT FOUND
In 15 acute stroke ICU patients, a handheld dynamometer gave consistent lower-limb strength readings in bed, with two therapists and across days.
It may help physical therapists record hip, knee and ankle strength in pounds, but not yet proven against sitting tests.
Key findings
01The therapists' strength readings were highly consistent for hip flexors, knee extensors and ankle dorsiflexors.
02Each therapist's own strength readings were highly consistent when repeated one day later.
03All 15 participants could complete the strength tests.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTs
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What it does not show
Only 15 acute stroke patients were studied, so the reliability estimates are from a small pilot. The study did not compare supine testing with sitting testing, so accuracy across positions is unknown. Participants had to follow commands, have Brunnstrom stage above III, and have NIHSS scores of 5 to 25, so findings may not apply to more severe or non-communicative acute stroke patients. The researchers assumed strength would not vary within 24 hours, which may not hold in acute stroke.
Declared interests
The authors declared no competing interests.
The easy way to misread this
Do not read this as proof that handheld dynamometry is accurate, superior to manual muscle testing, or validated against sitting strength tests. It showed measurement consistency in 15 selected acute stroke patients only, and it did not compare supine results with sitting results.