Affiliations: Nutritional Physiology Research Centre, Sansom
Institute for Health Research, University of South Australia, Australia | Australian Technology Network Centre for Metabolic
Fitness, Australia | School of Mechanical Engineering, University of
Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia | School of Medical Sciences, RMIT University,
Melbourne, WSW, Australia
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Jonathan Buckley, School of Health
Sciences, University of South Australia, PO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001,
Australia. Tel.: +61 8 8302 1853; Fax: +61 8 8302 2178; E-mail:
[email protected]
Abstract: Objective: To critically appraise the Biodex System 4 isokinetic
dynamometer for strength assessment of children. Methods: Appraisal was
based on experiences from two independent laboratories involving testing of
213 children. Issues were recorded and the manufacturer was consulted regarding
appropriate solutions. Results: The dynamometer had insufficient height
adjustment for alignment of the knee for some children, requiring the
construction of padding to better fit the child within the dynamometer.
Potential for entrapment of the non-testing leg was evident in the passive and
eccentric modes and a leg bracket restraint was constructed. Automated gravity
correction did not operate when protocols were linked or data was exported to
an external device. Conclusions: Limitations were noted, some of which
were applicable to knee strength testing in general and others which were
specific to use with children. However, most of these obstacles could be
overcome, making the Biodex System 4 suitable for assessment of knee strength in children.
