Hand-Held Dynamometry Isometric Torque Reference Values for

Purpose: To establish hand-held dynamometry (HHD) maximal isometric muscle torque (MIT) reference values for children and adolescents who are developing typically. Methods: The MIT of 10 upper and lower limb muscle groups was assessed in 351 Caucasian youth (4 years 2 months to 17 years) using a standardized HHD protocol, previously shown to be feasible, valid, and reliable. Results: The mean MIT and 95 % confidence interval of the mean for all muscle groups, for each of the 14 age groups (1 year age span for each group), and for each sex, were reported in both absolute (Nm) and normalized (Nm/kg) values. Conclusion: These HHD reference values may be helpful in the identification of muscle strength impairments in several pediatric populations, especially when bilateral impairments are present. (Pediatr Phys Ther 2015;27:414–423) Key words: adolescent, age factors, child, lower limbs, muscle strength dynamometer, reference values, sex factors, upper limbs INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE Muscle strength is an important clinical measure in pediatric rehabilitation. Limitations in walking, running, and rising to standing, for example, are related to muscle strength in several different clinical groups.1-7 Moreover