Isokinetic dynamometry in elderly women undergoing total knee arthroplasty: a comparative study.
OBJECTIVE
The present study assessed the reliability and validity of isokinetic dynamometry in the qualitative determination of the evolution of total knee arthroplasty.


METHODS
20 patients whose mean age was 71.35 years, undergoing knee arthroplasty, and 25 controls whose mean age was 71.36 years.


METHODS
Computerized isokinetic assessment of flexor and extensor muscles using a CYBEX 6000 dynamometer.


RESULTS
The total flexor/extensor effort ratio for the treated side of patients vs the nondominant side of controls was not significantly different. The flexion/extension ratio concerning maximum torque for the treated side of patients vs the nondominant side of controls was significantly different.


CONCLUSIONS
By detecting deficiencies in the balance of flexor and extensor muscles (a balance that is required for uniform gait), it will be possible to select specific rehabilitation exercises according to the individual needs of each patient undergoing surgery.
de Amorim Aquino
Marcos
M
Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, São Paulo University Medical School, Brazil.
Leme
Luiz Eugênio Garcez
LE
D000368:Aged; D019645:Arthroplasty, Replacement, Knee / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005080:Exercise Test / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009119:Muscle Contraction / Q000502:physiology*; D018482:Muscle, Skeletal / Q000502:physiology*; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular / Q000502:physiology*; D020127:Recovery of Function / Q000502:physiology*; D013718:Tensile Strength / Q000502:physiology; D019415:Torque