Isokinetic testing of your knee is an important way to measure and assess knee strength after an injury. It is uncommon to see isokinetic testing done in most fitness settings due to the cost of the machine. However, it is often used in rehabilitation and university settings. An isokinetic contraction is a muscular contraction that is performed at a constant-set velocity with a resistance level that adjusts so the target speed is met. This makes isokinetic knee exercises safe to perform because the maximal amount of resistance automatically adjusts to your ability level, which is important if you are injured.
Step 1
Adjust the seat of the isokinetic dynamometer so your knees rest on the edge of the padded seat.
Step 2
Move the angle of the lever arm to the desired knee joint angle you want to test. For a full range of motion, you want to set the machine so your knee starts at a 90-degree angle.
Step 3
Change the height of the ankle holster so it wraps around your lower leg, just above your ankle joint. These first three steps can also be performed by a trained technician. The technician also sets the velocity of the machine by entering the target speed into the computer.
Step 4
Sit in the machine and situate your body so your knee joint rests on the edge of the seat and your ankle is in the holster.
Step 5
Extend your leg, utilizing as forceful a contraction as you can manage. You want to extend your leg until it is almost completely straight.
Step 6
Repeat the test as necessary. The computer will print out the force you generate for each degree of movement at your knee. This will let you know at which joint angles you are strongest and where you are weakest.
Tips and Warnings
- Perform a warm-up prior to utilizing maximal effort. This means you may need to do several tests with less than maximal strength.
- Proper setup of the machine is crucial in preventing knee injury or reinjury when using the dynamometer. Double-check with your technician to ensure you have situated yourself properly.
Things You'll Need
- Isokinetic knee dynamometer
- Technician
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