Affiliations: [a] Biodynamics Laboratory, Musculoskeletal Surgery, Acute
and Reconstructive Surgery, Division of Surgery, Anaesthetics & Intensive
Care, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, Charing Cross Hospital, London W6
8RF, UK. Tel.: +44 208 383 8831; Fax: +44 208 383 8835; E-mail:
[email protected]
Note: [] Corresponding author
Abstract: Objective: To investigate the muscle strength profile of the forearm
in experienced tennis players and non-tennis players, including establishment
of reproducibility data for dynamometer testing of grip strength, forearm and
wrist torque. Methods: Grip strength was evaluated using a mechanical handgrip
dynamometer. Pronation/supination and wrist extension/flexion performance was
tested using an isokinetic dynamometer. Ten subjects (mean age 22.9 ±
1.8 yrs) took part in reproducibility testing. For the main study, twelve
tennis players (mean age 24.6 ± 9.3) and twelve controls (mean age 22.2
± 1.2) were evaluated using the same protocol. Results: Reproducibility values showed variability between testing
sessions, highlighting that caution be employed when using this equipment.
Average maximum grip strength of tennis players was significantly higher
(p < 0.0001) in the dominant arm (51.19 kg) compared to their non-dominant
arm (45.03 kg). Pronation in the dominant arm was significantly higher than the
non-dominant arm in both subject groups. Wrist extension was stronger in the
dominant arm compared to the non-dominant arm in both subject groups. Conclusion: Reproducibility of test protocol needs to be addressed
if it is to be used in future comparative studies. This study indicates that
prolonged asymmetrical sporting activity produces muscle profile asymmetries
between and within limbs. The functional significance of these findings
requires further investigation.
