To evaluate the reliability of instrumented measurements of ankle resistance during passive movements and muscle strength in the lower leg in children.
Key Findings:
Stiffness coefficient ICC: 0.79 (0.13, 0.94)
Maximal neural torque ICC: 0.96 (0.86, 0.99)
Maximal voluntary contraction of plantarflexors ICC: 0.96 (0.86, 0.99)
Maximal voluntary contraction of dorsiflexors ICC: 0.96 (0.86, 0.99)
Interpretation:
The NeuroFlexor and rig-fixed dynamometer showed good to excellent test-retest reliability for assessing passive ankle joint resistance and muscle strength in typically developing children.
Limitations:
The study involved a small sample size of typically developing children.
Further research is needed to explore their use in clinical populations.
Conclusion:
The findings indicate reliable measurement tools for assessing ankle resistance and muscle strength in children.
