Dynamic strength and endurance of the thigh muscles in patients with minimum sequel after ischaemic stroke

Objective: The aim was to assess the perceived motor impairment in patients with minimal or no overt motor symptoms after ischaemic stroke. Study desi gn: Ten patients with stroke and 22 healthy subjects were investigated. The investigation included different tests, single maximal dynamic knee extens ions and single dynamic knee flexions at different angular velocities, and an endurance test consisting of 100 maximal repeated dynamic knee extension s. The tests were performed using an isokinetic dynamometer with simultaneo us surface electromyography registration. Peak torque of the mechanical per formance, signal amplitude and mean frequency of the electromyography were determined for each contraction. Results: The peak torque values indicated that the patients with no overt motor deficits exhibited clear motor impair ment in former affected limb. The two electromyography parameters indicated to some extent that also the so-called unaffected limb was affected. Concl usions: The tests used in the present study revealed impairments not clinic ally observed on routine clinical examination. These findings might be of i mportance in optimising the rehabilitation for the patients returning to va rious activities in their daily lives.