A STANDARD METHOD OF SHOULDER STRENGTH MEASUREMENT FOR THE CONSTANT SCORE WITH A SPRING BALANCE

The strength component of the Constant score has been criticized for i ts lack of a precisely defined measurement method. A series of experim ents was performed to compare three different methods in normal and pa thologic shoulders with the use of a standard test position. These wer e (1) the Isobex isometric dynamometer, (2) Constant's unsecured sprin g balance, and (3) a new modification in which the spring balance is f ixed at one end and the reading is taken after 5 seconds of maximum ef fort. The results suggest that this simple modification with a low-cos t spring balance can give similar values to those from the Isobex. The need for precision of terms and a definition of the method is discuss ed, and recommendations For the standardization of the many variables in making this measurement are made.