Comparative study on isokinetic capacity of knee and ankle joints by functional injury

[ Purpose] To collect basic data for exercise programs designed to enhance functional knee and ankle joint stability based on isokinetic measurement and muscle strength evaluations in normal and impaired functional states.[ Subjects and Methods] Twenty-four subjects were randomly assigned to the athlete group and the control group (n = 12 each). Data were collected of isokinetic knee extensor and flexor strength at 60 degrees/sec, 180 degrees/sec, and 240 degrees/sec and ankle plantar and dorsiflexor strength at 30 degrees/sec and 120 degrees/sec.[ Results] Significant intergroup differences were observed in peak torque of the right extensors at 60 degrees/sec, 180 degrees/sec, and 240 degrees/sec and the right flexors at 240 degrees/sec. Significant differences were observed in peak torque/body weight in the right extensors at 60 degrees/sec, 180 degrees/sec, and 240 degrees/sec and in the right flexors at 180 degrees/sec and 240 degrees/sec. Significant peak torque differences were noted in the left ankle joint dorsiflexor at 30 degrees/sec and 120 degrees/sec, right plantar flexor at 120 degrees/sec, left plantar flexor at 30 degrees/sec, left dorsiflexor at 30 degrees/sec and 120 degrees/sec, and right dorsiflexor at 120 degrees/sec.[ Conclusion] Isokinetic evaluation stimulates muscle contraction at motion-dependent speeds and may contribute to the development of intervention programs to improve knee and ankle joint function and correct lower-extremity instability.