Abstract
D.Phil.
The goal of effective rehabilitation should always be to restore "normal" function if
possible. What is "normal" function? Although many subjective definitions may
describe what is "normal", it is the search for objective criteria of what constitutes
"normality" that inspires exercise scientists worldwide! The primary aim of this study
was to establish normative isokinetic torque values in young males, for rehabilitation
purposes in South Africa. Four hundred and forty four (444) healthy male subjects
participated in the study. A Cybex 340 isokinetic dynamometer was used to measure
peak torque, using a quantitative experimental design. No correction was made for
the effects of gravity. The following movement patterns were included: ankle
plantar/dorsiflexion, knee flexion/extension, shoulder external/internal rotation,
shoulder horizontal abduction/adduction, shoulder flexion/extension, elbow
flexion/extension (using two different grip positions), and forearm
pronation/supination. Descriptive statistics together with percentile scaling were
used to develop normative values for the movement patterns studied. Normative
values were presented in relative terms and expressed as a percentage in terms of
Nm torque per kg body mass (% BM). In addition to the relative isokinetic torque
values, the agonisUantagonist ratios were also ~xpressed as a percentage. The
percentile scales were also included to be used by clinicians involved in talent
identification programmes and the screening of elite athletes. To conclude,
normative isokinetic values were de'leloped for young South African males. To
enable subjects with large variations in body weight to utilize these norms, they were
expressed in relative terms (% BM) instead of absolute terms (Nm). The possible
benefit of the study was that population-specific and objective normative values were
established for rehabilitation purposes and for use in sport science programs.