Clarification of isometric knee extensor strength levels that lead to limited maximum gait speeds: Measurement using a hand-held dynamometer

Abstract

[Purpose] To clarify isometric knee extensor strength levels that lead to limited maximum gait speeds. [Participants and Methods] We examined 138 elderly male inpatients aged 65 to 85, dividing them into 5 groups based on their isometric knee extensor strength levels, and calculating the maximum gait speed, step length, and cadence for each group. [Results] Values representing the maximum gait speed, step length, and cadence were lower among participants with lower isometric knee extensor strength levels. There were no significant differences in the maximum gait speed among groups with a muscle strength level of 0.50 kgf/kg or higher, but there were such differences among all groups with muscle strength levels lower than 0.50 kgf/kg. [Conclusion] Isometric knee extensor strength levels lower than 0.50 kgf/kg may lead to limited maximum gait speeds.