Table 2 Constructs related to muscle function
Constructs | Definitions |
|---|---|
Muscle strength | The amount of external force that a muscle can exert |
Muscular endurance | The ability of muscle groups to exert external force for many repetitions or successive exertions |
Functional alignment | Lower limb alignment during weight-bearing. A correct functional alignment means that the knee is lined up over the second toe without tending to fall inwards/medially during knee flexion (Figure 2) |
Functional performance test/measures | A test that challenges muscle strength and postural control or dynamic joint stabilization in the lower extremities and the trunk (for example, various knee bending tests). A physical performance test is a quantitative test (for example, measuring length, number of repetitions, seconds) that evaluates the prerequisite for function |
Closed kinetic chain exercise | Weight-bearing exercise with distally situated axis of motion and a movement occurring in several joints, and where the distal segment is usually fixed to a supporting surface (for example, a squat) |
Open kinetic chain exercise | Non weight-bearing exercise, with a proximally situated axis of motion and a movement occurring at a single joint, and where the distal segment is free to move (e.g., extension of the knee in a sitting position) |