Reliability of isokinetic torque values for ankle-invertors and evertors

Abstract

Partially funded through a grant from the Children's Hospital Los Angeles, School of Physical Therapy Alumni Association. The main purposes of this study were to determine the reliability of an isokinetic, inversion/eversion torque test with and without range of motion targets, as well as to assess the effects of a plantarflexion position and of limb dominance on isokinetic torque values. A secondary purpose was to measure inversion/eversion peak torque and the effects of velocity on peak torque. Two groups of eight women were tested using the Cybex II(R) Dynamometer. The experimental group used ROM targets while the nontarget group served as a control. Inversion/eversion peak torque (PKTQ) was measured at 0 and 20 degrees of plantarflexion at both 30 and 120 degrees /sec. Test retest reliability for inversion/eversion torque was greater using the ROM targets. Inversion PKTQ was significantly greater than eversion PKTQ in all but two tests. When testing velocity was increased, PKTQ decreased 44% and 31% for eversion and inversion, respectively. No significant change in PKTQ was demonstrated when comparing leg dominance or the degree of plantarflexion. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1990;11(12):612-616.