Responsiveness of hand-held dynamometry to changes in limb muscle strength: A retrospective investigation of published research

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Bohannon, Richard W.^a

Affiliations: [a] Department of Physical Therapy, Neag School of Education, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-2101, USA. Tel.: +1 860 486 0048; Fax: +1 860 486 1588; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: This retrospective work was undertaken to investigate the responsiveness of hand-held dynamometry (HHD). Potentially relevant research was identified via computerized searches of PubMed and Web of Science as well as a hand-search. Thirteen articles were found that allowed the description of responsiveness using effect size. Seventy-nine effect sizes ranged from 0 to 1.360. By Cohen's criteria most effect sizes (57%) qualified as small. Fifteen effect sizes (19.0%) qualified as medium and nine effect sizes (11.4%) qualified as large. HHD appears capable to detecting changes in limb muscle strength that accompany interventions or are associated with the natural course of disease states.

Keywords: Muscle strength, dynamometry, measurement

DOI: 10.3233/IES-2009-0357

Journal: Isokinetics and Exercise Science, vol. 17, no. 4, pp. 221-225, 2009