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Isokinetic testing is a strength test for the muscles around a joint, for example your knee. The test uses specially designed equipment to measure the muscle contractions and resistance around your joint. Typically, the performance of a damaged or troublesome joint will be compared to that of an unaffected equivalent - for example, you might have both your knees tested, and the results for both knees are then compared with each other - contrasting the strength of the affected knee against the unaffected joint.
This test is useful if you have an injury, are recovering from surgery or suffering from a long-term problem with your joint. Isokinetic testing can help to highlight weaknesses of specific muscle groups, so your physiotherapist can tailor your rehabilitation program.
The cost of physiotherapy starts from £64 for your first appointment.* This is based on a 45-minute appointment and includes a full assessment and treatment plan.
The cost of follow-up appointments starts from £50.*
The cost of your total physiotherapy treatment will depend on various factors such as your condition, how many sessions you need and what type of treatment you are recommended. Some of our specialist treatments such as steroid injection therapy and Phits Insoles are priced separately, however you will be informed of any additional charges as part of your treatment planning. Your physiotherapist will always discuss your treatment options with you.
*This is a guide price and may vary. You'll be told the exact cost before you book.
Isokinetic testing uses a large machine consisting of a computer and a dynamometer (a device that measures force); the dynamometer will typically be attached to the affected joint. As you push against the dynamometer it will provide resistance to maintain a set speed. The machine will be able to identify any specific muscle groups that appear weaker than others and show this in the final report.
At the start of the session, you will be asked to perform a set of appropriate exercises in order to warm up your muscles before getting into the machine for testing. Once you are sat in the machine, your physiotherapist will explain how the machine works and allow you to become familiar with it before the test starts so that you feel comfortable with what you need to do.
If you are having your knees tested, you could be asked to move your leg or knee in a variety of positions in order to get readings. An example could be being asked to 'kick' your leg upwards whilst remaining in a seating position and then bringing the leg back down so that the machine can measure the force you are using to do this and which muscles within the leg and knee are weaker than others.
All the information is recorded by the computer, with the results shown as a graph. The results are used by the physiotherapist to prescribe a tailored treatment programme, which will help to improve the strength of the damaged joint so that it matches that of the unaffected one.
After your session your physiotherapist will analyse the results and use them to prescribe a home and/or gym exercise programme. This programme will be tailored to your specific needs and requirements. Your physiotherapist will go through how to perform any exercises that maybe required and answer any questions you have at this point.
As the results are objective, you'll be able to retake the test again in the future after a suitable amount of time has passed to highlight your improvement. This will help you track your progress and provide continuous motivation to keep up with your exercises.
Here are the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions around isokinetic testing:
What are the benefits of having isokinetic testing?
If you've had an injury, surgery or are suffering from a long-term problem with your knee or another joint, you may benefit from an isokinetic test. The test allows for:
- Safe loading through the joint range
- Isolated measurement of muscle strength in different parts of the body
- Comparing results between sessions to monitor improvements
- Using data to plan a specifically tailored rehabilitation programme
- Comparison with the opposite unaffected limb
- Can support a return to sport for athletes suffering from sports-related injuries
- It can facilitate a faster recovery after undergoing surgery
Will the test cause pain or discomfort?
The test should not cause you any pain or discomfort. If any movement you perform begins to feel uncomfortable, you should inform your physiotherapist who will pause the test and work with you to find an easier and more comfortable position.
What should you bring to your appointment?
You should come to the appointment in appropriate, loose and comfortable clothing that you feel free to move around in or sports clothing such as a t-shirt, shorts and trainers.
When you choose to go private with Circle Health Group, you can expect:
- Flexible appointment times and locations to fit your routine
- Freedom to choose your hospital and physiotherapist
- Specialist physiotherapy equipment and imaging facilities at your fingertips
- Specialist advice and exercises to follow in sessions and at home
- Tailored services (your physiotherapist will build your programme around your needs)
If you want to know more about isokinetic testing and find out if it's the right treatment for you, call one of our friendly advisors today.
Content reviewed by Circle physiotherapy team in June 2023. Next review due June 2026.
- Isokinetic Testing and Training, SportsCare Physical Therapy
- Isokinetic Test, Isokinetic
- Isokinetic Muscle Testing: Is It Clinically Useful?, NIH
- What is Isokinetic Testing?, Biodex
- Isokinetic Dynamometer, ScienceDirect
