Muscle Function Testing

Last Updated: Oct 21, 2013 | By Denise Stern

Muscle function tests determine the power and force of muscle groups.Photo Credit Adam Gault/Digital Vision/Getty Images

Muscle function testing is useful in determining the proper function, strength and endurance of
muscles or muscle groups in the body. Often performed in medical or clinical settings, muscle function
tests are generally performed on patients or individuals who have experienced a muscle injury in order
to determine impairment levels.

Definition
Muscle function tests can determine your range of motion or degree of impingement and
determine adequate and appropriate interventions such as physical or occupational therapy.
Such tests may also determine whether supportive devices may be required for optimal
strength and support. Muscle testing can measure the degree of loss of muscle function,
strength and mobility for individuals diagnosed with a neuromuscular disease such as
Parkinson's or multiple sclerosis.
Functional Muscle Testing
Functional muscle testing measures and rates your ability to engage in and perform activities
required for daily living, such as walking, bending, squatting or holding or lifting objects of
various sizes and weights. Functional muscle testing evaluations take into consideration your
ability to balance, bear weight, climb stairs, walk, lunge and jump or hop from one spot to
another.

Manual Muscle Testing

Manual muscle testing engages range of motion activity and resistance. You may be asked to
circle your arm at the shoulder joint while a physical therapist or caregiver applies slight
resistance to your efforts, or you may perform various moving actions with a light dumbbell
or resistance band. Weight or tension may gradually increase to determine limits. These tests
are performed bilaterally, such as both arms and legs, to gain an accurate measure of strength,
endurance and stability. Muscle groups that may be tested using this method include the
deltoids and biceps, the quadriceps, gluteus maximus and medius, as well as the ankle
dorsiflexors and the wrist extensors, according to the National Institute of Environmental
Health Sciences.
Isokinetic Dynamometry
Isokinetic dynamometry is a medical term that describes testing muscle function with a piece
of equipment that measures the force or power of a muscle contraction in muscle groups
during isometric contractions. For example, the device can measure joint angles and speed
during flexion and contraction of muscle groups in the upper arms, thighs and lower
extremities. The test determines the function, force and speed of tendons connecting muscle to
bone, as well as maximum contraction rates and force obtained by shortening and lengthening
of a muscle within a group. Isokinetic dynamometry tests both length and tension, and force
and velocity relationships in these muscle groups.