Author/Editor     Isakov, E; Burger, H; Gregorič, M; Marinček, Č
Title     Isokinetic and isometric strength of the thigh muscles in below-knee amputees: brief report
Type     članek
Source     Clin Biomech
Vol. and No.     Letnik 11, št. 4
Publication year     1996
Volume     str. 233-5
Language     eng
Abstract     Objective. The strength of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles of the amputated limb in below-knee amputees was evaluated. Design. A descriptive study based on clinical measurements of muscle strength. Background. The residual limb of below-knee amputees is less active in daily functions. As a result, atrophy of the thigh muscles in the affected limb is a common finding. Quality of standing and gait performances on the strength of those muscles, which activate the knee of the amputated limb. Methods. isokinetic concentric and eccentric, as well as isometric, strength of thigh muscles was measured by means of a dynamometer. Parameters of peak torque and maximal average torque of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles were considered. Results. Significant decreases (P <0.01) in strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings were observed in the amputated limb. Thigh muscle strength in amputees over 7 years was not significantly weaker when compared with amputees where amputation had been performed more recently. Conclusions. In below-knee amputees, the thigh muscle strength of the amputated limb decreases significantly during the first years after amputation.
Descriptors     AMPUTATION
MUSCLE, SKELETAL
MUSCLE CONTRACTION
THIGH
ISOMETRIC CONTRACTION
LEG
MUSCULAR ATROPHY