Evaluation of mechanical and functional vertebral joint stability by isokinetic dynamometry

Introduction: joint stability is a prerequisite for the functional activities and has being extensively studied. However, the existing assessment methods do not cover information on all stabilizer system components. Purpose: to evaluate the vertebral joint stability by isokinetic dynamometry and to correlate the findings with clinical tests. Method: fifty-seven asymptomatic individuals from both sexes with age between 18 and 30 years had vertebral joint stability evaluated by the isokinetic variables: passive stiffness curve, potentially elastic energy and trunk extensor strength, and by Schober Index and finger-floor distance. The relationship between these parameters were statistically analyzed with significance level of 5%. Results: there was significative difference in Schober Index between the groups that had presence and absence of passive stiffness curve (p=0,001) Conclusion: the present study provided information on the participation of passive variables in the context of vertebral stability. The protocol developed for data collection on passive stiffness also allows measuring the anatomical and structural components responsible for mechanical stability.