Torque variations during repeated passive isokinetic movements of the kneein subjects with Parkinson's disease and healthy control subjects

The purpose of this study was to quantify response variations during isokin etic passive movements of the knee in subjects with Parkinson's disease. Pa rkinsonian patients demonstrated a greater decrease of resistive torque com pared to healthy control subjects, particularly in tests at higher velociti es and during knee flexion movements. Responses were influenced by electrom yographic activity in stretched and shortened muscle groups and also by mec hanical factors. The results indicate that repetition of movements needs to be taken into account when measuring hypertonia in parkinsonian subjects. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.