Dungeons & Dynamometers in Denver
BEWARE: HEAVY SCIENCE DISCUSSION AHEAD
The title makes it sound like we went to a comic con conference. However, instead this past weekend we explored all things dynamometry and testing through a course called Dungeons & Dynamometers. I personally loved it because it validated all of my confirmation bias about standardization of testing and what goes into fulfilling a detailed, comprehensive evaluation with our patients. What's not to love when you feel heard!
So what is dynamometry? Why is it important?
Dynamometry is the process of measuring force, and in this case how we specifically measure muscle force production. Or in other words, how strong is this muscle? It’s important to measure these forces to first allow us to identify asymmetries between limbs, or what would be considered normal to that patient. Second, it allows us to compare normative values and what this person should be expected to produce in regards to strength.
This information drives all things decision making for us. Is strength one of the reasons this person is in pain? Could strength be why they move a certain way? Are they producing enough force to be able to perform a certain way? Are they ready to return to the mountain safely?
It’s a staple in all of our evaluations and assessments at Tundra Performance and Physical Therapy and unfortunately not as common at other physical therapy clinics.
Here was my biggest takeaway from this past weekend:
Set Up Matters
The goal is to measure peak force and strength. If we let variability enter the system, the result is blurred data. By implementing intentional, consistent positioning and set ups, we improve our capacity to not only test the thing that we are testing but also increase our ability to tease out asymmetries. Better data, means better assessment, improved decision making, and ultimately improved outcomes for the patient.
Want to explore your own strength and force production testing, please reach out to consult with us at Tundra Performance and Physical Therapy where we are experienced at creating customized and individualized rehabilitation programs fit to you and your goals.
Helping athletes RESOLVE THEIR PAIN by CLEARLY DEFINING THE PROBLEM and IMPLEMENTING EFFECTIVE SOLUTIONS to get them back doing the activities they love!
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