Comparison of electrical stimulation and isometric training on isokinetic strength of knee extensors: A randomized clinical trial

Abstract

Objective: The purposes of this study were (1) to investigate and (2) to compare effects of isometric exercises and electrical stimulation on isokinetic strength for healthy quadriceps femoris muscle.

Methodology: Twenty healthy volunteers (range, 20-25; mean age, 20.9±1.1 yr) participated in the study. All participants were divided into two groups (Group I and Group II). Each group consisted of 10 subjects. While Group I received electrical stimulation with Russian current, Group II trained with maximal volunteer isometric exercises (10s contraction and 50 s relaxing periods with 10 repetitions) for three days per week for six weeks. Before and after the training program, each subject was evaluated using the following tests; anthropometrical measurements, fixed weight repetition, step-up, decline squat, single leg hop, and isokinetic assessments (peak torque, work per repetition, initial peak torque, fatigue index, total work done, %BW).

Results: After a 6-week training program, significant differences in terms of physical functioning and isokinetic parameters in the two groups were found (p