Effects of speed and limb dominance on eccentric and concentric isokinetic testing of the knee

This study investigated the effects of speed and limb dominance on torque values and ratios of the quadriceps and hamstrings during both eccentric and concentric exercise. Both knees of 12 males and 13 females, 21-33 years of age, were tested at 30°/sec and 180°/sec on the KIN-COM. Results indicated that: 1) concentric quadriceps torque values and torque/body weight ratios decreased significantly at the higher speed, 2) no significant changes in eccentric quadriceps or eccentric hamstrings torque occurred at the two speeds, 3) no significant differences were demonstrated in the torque values or torque/body weight ratios between dominant and nondominant knees during both concentric and eccentric exercise at both speeds, 4) hamstrings/quadriceps torque ratios increased significantly at the higher speed during concentric exercise, and 5) for males, the hamstrings/quadriceps ratios were significantly greater in the nondominant limb during both concentric and eccentric exercise at both speeds. These findings are important when establishing appropriate and safe rehabilitation goals during isokinetic eccentric activity.