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Evoked tetanic torque and activation level explain strength differences by side

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Abstract

Previous studies have demonstrated that healthy young people typically have side-to-side differences in knee strength of about 10% when the peak torque generated by the stronger leg is contrasted with that of the weaker leg. However, the mechanisms responsible for side-to-side differences in knee strength have not been clearly defined. The current study tested the hypothesis that side-to-side knee extensor strength differences are explained by inter-limb variations in voluntary activation, antagonistic hamstrings activity, and electrically evoked torque at rest. Twenty-two volunteers served as subjects. Side-to-side differences in quadriceps activation and electrically evoked knee extensor torque explained 69% of the strength differences by side. Antagonistic hamstrings activity did not contribute significantly. The results suggest both central and peripheral mechanisms contribute to inter-limb variations in strength.

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Acknowledgment

This work was supported in part by NIH-NCMRR Grant # 1 K12 HD055931.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Graduate Program in Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA

    Chandramouli Krishnan & Glenn N. Williams

  2. University of Iowa Sports Medicine Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA

    Glenn N. Williams

  3. 1-152 MEB, Musculoskeletal Biomechanics and Sports Medicine Research Laboratory, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242-1190, USA

    Glenn N. Williams

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  1. Chandramouli Krishnan
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  2. Glenn N. Williams
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Correspondence to Glenn N. Williams.

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Krishnan, C., Williams, G.N. Evoked tetanic torque and activation level explain strength differences by side. Eur J Appl Physiol 106, 769–774 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-009-1057-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00421-009-1057-y

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