Faculty Collaboration Database

Age-related differences in knee muscle strength in normal women. J Gerontol 1985 May;40(3):275-80

Date

05/01/1985

Pubmed ID

3989239

DOI

10.1093/geronj/40.3.275

Scopus ID

2-s2.0-0021800115 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site)   170 Citations

Abstract

This study provides normal baselines of knee muscle strength for women up to 86 years of age. Knee muscle strength (torque) was measured during maximum isometric and dynamic (isokinetic) contractions in 72 normal healthy women in three age groups between 20 and 86 years. Strength of the oldest group ranged from 56 to 78% of that in the youngest group, depending on knee joint position. Strength values were greater for isometric contractions than for isokinetic contractions (performed at 36 degrees per second) and were approximately twice as great for the extensor as for the flexor muscles. For both muscle groups, the torque generated with the knee in 30 degrees of flexion was usually lower than that generated with the knee at the 45- or 60-degree position. Despite the significant deficit found in the strength of the oldest group, it is likely that this relative weakness would not be detected on routine clinical examination using manual muscle testing.

Author List

Murray MP, Duthie EH Jr, Gambert SR, Sepic SB, Mollinger LA

Author

Edmund H. Duthie MD Professor in the Medicine department at Medical College of Wisconsin

MESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold

Adult
Aged
Aging
Female
Humans
Isometric Contraction
Isotonic Contraction
Knee
Knee Joint
Middle Aged
Muscle Contraction