REFERENCE VALUES FOR LUMBAR MUSCLE DYNAMOMETRY IN ADULTS
Keywords:
Dynamometry, Lumbosacral Region, Isometric Contraction, Reference ValuesAbstract
Muscle strength is essential for health and functionality, serving as a relevant indicator for daily activities and being associated with the prevention of disabilities. The reduction of strength, especially in the spinal musculature, leads to pain and represents a significant burden on healthcare systems. Objective: To identify and analyze reference values for the strength of lumbar extensor muscles (LEM) in adults, based on a literature review. Method: This is an integrative review aimed at gathering studies that reported reference values for lumbar muscle strength. The search was conducted in the Scopus, National Library of Medicine, SciELO, and Web of Science databases, using keyword blocks related to adults, dynamometry, and reference values. Results: Six studies were included, showing heterogeneity in protocols, populations, and equipment used (isokinetic and portable dynamometers), with substantial variation in strength and torque values. This reveals a gap in the literature as well as the absence of consolidated reference values. Conclusion: Variations in values, as well as in lumbar muscle strength assessment protocols, highlight the need for more robust studies to standardize lumbar strength evaluation methods.
References
Volaklis KA, Halle M, Meisinger C. Muscular strength as a strong predictor of mortality: A narrative review. Eur J Intern Med. 2015 Jun;26(5):303–10.
Hulens M, Vansant G, Lysens R, Claessens AL, Muls E. Assessment of Isokinetic Muscle Strength in Women Who Are Obese. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2002 Jul;32(7):347–56.
Oliveira VHF, Wiechmann SL, Narciso AMS, Deminice R. Knee extension and flexion strength asymmetry in Human Immunodeficiency Virus positive subjects: a cross-sectional study. Braz J Phys Ther. 2017 Nov;21(6):434–9.
Ojha HA, Wyrsta NJ, Davenport TE, Egan WE, Gellhorn AC. Timing of Physical Therapy Initiation for Nonsurgical Management of Musculoskeletal Disorders and Effects on Patient Outcomes: A Systematic Review. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2016 Feb;46(2):56–70.
Hutten MMR, Hermens HJ. Reliability of lumbar dynamometry measurements in patients with chronic low back pain with test-retest measurements on different days. European Spine Journal. 1997 Jan;6(1):54–62.
Hulens M, Vansant G, Lysens R, Claessens AL, Muls E. Assessment of Isokinetic Muscle Strength in Women Who Are Obese. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2002 Jul;32(7):347–56.
Leonardi N da V, Kohl L de M, Silva L da, Orsolin EB, Sturmer G, Júnior NGB, et al. Perfil da musculatura extensora lombar de trabalhadores rurais na atividade leiteira. Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Trabalho. 2018;16(2):128–35.
Ilves O, Neva MH, Häkkinen K, Dekker J, Järvenpää S, Kyrölä K, et al. Effectiveness of a 12-month home-based exercise program on trunk muscle strength and spine function after lumbar spine fusion surgery: a randomized controlled trial. Disabil Rehabil. 2022 Feb 13;44(4):549–57.
Cho KH, Beom JW, Lee TS, Lim JH, Lee TH, Yuk JH. Trunk Muscles Strength as a Risk Factor for Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Pilot Study. Ann Rehabil Med. 2014;38(2):234.
Eichinger FLF, Soares AV, Júnior JM de C, Gevaerd M da S, Domenech SC, Júnior NGB. Dinamometria lombar: um teste funcional para o tronco. Revista Brasileira de Medicina do Trabalho. 2016;14(2):120–6.
Vlazna D, Adamova B, Krkoska P, Kokosova V, Matulova K, Barusova T, et al. Strength and endurance of the lumbar extensor muscles and their predictors: A cross-sectional study in healthy subjects. Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology. 2025 Feb;80:102973.
