Portable Dynamometry Is Reliable for Measuring Knee and Ankle Strength in Daily Practice: Results From a Systematic Review With Meta-analysis and Evidence Gap Map Using the COSMIN Methodology.
Rubén Gajardo-Burgos, Teresa Jaque de la Barra, Rodrigo Ramírez-Campillo et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the reliability and criterion validity of portable dynamometers for measuring knee and ankle muscle strength in both uninjured individuals and those with lower-limb musculoskeletal conditions. The analysis included 123 studies with 5042 participants, revealing moderate- to high-certainty evidence of sufficient reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.70) across most muscle groups and positions, particularly for knee extensors and ankle plantarflexors.
Key findings
- Moderate- to high-certainty evidence of sufficient reliability across most muscle groups and positions.
- High-certainty evidence for external fixation assessing knee extensors/flexors and ankle plantarflexors.
- High-certainty evidence of sufficient validity for knee extensor and flexor strength in seated positions (r = 0.82-0.90).
- Evidence for criterion validity was sparse, with certainty ranging from very low to high.
Why it matters
Understanding the reliability of portable dynamometers is crucial for clinicians assessing muscle strength in various populations. Reliable measurements can enhance treatment planning and rehabilitation strategies for patients with lower-limb conditions.