Isokinetic Testing
Pronunciation: eye-so-kih-NET-ik
A standardized muscle-strength assessment method in which joint movement occurs at a constant angular velocity, used to inform orthotic prescription and outcome measurement.
Full Definition
Isokinetic testing employs a dynamometer (e.g., Biodex, Cybex) to measure peak torque, total work, and power of muscle groups through a range of motion at a pre-set constant angular velocity, expressed in degrees per second. In orthotic rehabilitation, results inform decisions about the degree of mechanical support required, track functional progress, and contribute to discharge planning. Editors reviewing rehabilitation outcome reports should note that isokinetic results must reference the testing velocity (e.g., 60°/s, 180°/s), the joint tested, and the limb side to be interpretable. 'Isokinetic' is often confused with 'isotonic' (constant load) and 'isometric' (no movement); these are not interchangeable in clinical documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify angular velocity and joint in isokinetic test results; do not use 'isokinetic,' 'isotonic,' and 'isometric' interchangeably.
In Context
- "Isokinetic testing at 60°/s revealed a 35% quadriceps deficit on the involved limb, supporting the prescription of a functional knee orthosis." — Pre-orthotic clinical evaluation report
- "The author used 'isometric' and 'isokinetic' interchangeably; flag for clinical review before publication." — Editorial query on rehabilitation research paper