Age-related changes in upper limb isokinetic and grip strength

Abstract

Declines in muscle strength have been shown to be correlated with declines in independent function in the elderly and reduced abilities to complete daily living tasks. Studies of age-related changes in upper limb muscle strength have been based primarily on isometric contractions, and most commonly on handgrip.Cross-sectional age-related bilateral isokinetic shoulder and elbow muscle strength and isometric grip strength are reported for a selected sample of 52 males aged 21-74 years. Isokinetic average torque was measured using a Kin-Corn II® dynamometer at 60 and 120° sec−1 (1.05 and 1.10 rad sec−1). The movements tested were concentric shoulder flexion/extension, adduction, elbow flexion/ extension, and eccentric shoulder adduction. Maximum isometric grip strength was measured using a hand-held dynamometer. Of the 12 muscle groups tested isokinetically, 9 were significantly weaker by -15% to 19% in the 50-74 year age group. Declines in grip strength between the 20-39 and 50-74 age groups were non-signif...