Dynamometry
Pronunciation: dy-nah-MOM-eh-tree
The objective measurement of muscle force or grip strength using a dynamometer, used in PM&R to quantify strength deficits and track rehabilitation progress.
Full Definition
Dynamometry is a quantitative assessment technique in which a dynamometer — a handheld or fixed instrument — measures the force produced during muscular contraction. In PM&R, handheld dynamometry (HHD) is commonly used for individual muscle group testing, while grip dynamometry assesses hand strength. Results are expressed in kilograms, pounds, or Newtons and are compared with normative data stratified by age and sex. Editors should distinguish dynamometry from manual muscle testing (MMT): dynamometry provides an objective numeric value, whereas MMT uses an ordinal grading scale relying on examiner judgment. Both 'dynamometry' and 'dynamometer' derive from the Greek for 'power,' and both terms are always lowercase.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from manual muscle testing (MMT), which is ordinal and examiner-dependent. Specify whether handheld or fixed dynamometry was used, as this affects the reliability and comparability of results.
In Context
- "Handheld dynamometry confirmed a 40% strength deficit in the left quadriceps compared with the right side." — Physical therapy evaluation report
- "Grip dynamometry results were recorded bilaterally and compared with age- and sex-matched normative values." — Functional capacity evaluation report