Angle-Specific Torque Profile Analysis in the Wrist Joint

The wrist joint performs various tasks at multiple angles during daily activities, both in flexion and extension positions. Among the parameters that facilitate these tasks, strength-particularly in relation to coordination and motor control-plays a key role. Therefore, identifying potential strength deficits is important for maintaining the continuity of daily functional tasks. In the literature, a wide range of methods exist for evaluating strength, from manual tests to advanced technological devices (references). One such method, isokinetic dynamometry, is considered among the most reliable due to its ability to provide objective and standardized measurements across different types of muscle contractions (isometric, isotonic, and isokinetic). Isokinetic dynamometers yield various data including peak torque, average torque, total work, fatigue index, and torque slope. Researchers frequently interpret findings based on peak or average torque values generated during isokinetic contractions. These torque measures provide an overall representation of strength during a given movement. In wrist movements, rather than a single muscle, muscle groups are responsible for executing motion. However, when only peak or average torque at a single joint angle is assessed, the presence or absence of weakness in the movement can be detected, but it offers limited information. If weakness exists, identifying the specific joint angle at which it occurs can provide more direct insights into which muscles may be impaired. Furthermore, angle-specific profiling allows for characterization of muscle behavior throughout the movement, offering valuable information about potential kinematic disruptions. Having normative data on these profiles enables the detection of deviations from typical patterns across the full range of motion, which can be beneficial for both diagnosis and treatment planning. However, to derive such benefits, it is critical that the data be obtained using reliable met