An Observational Study to Determine the Reliability of Modified Digital Dynamometer to Check the Strength of Flexor Hallucis Longus Muscle

Purpose of the Study: To evaluate the reliability of a modified digital dynamometer for assessing the strength of the Flexor Hallucis Longus muscle (FHL) through maximum voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC). Relevance: The device is easier to handle, portable, and more cost-effective than any other similar device to measure maximum voluntary isometric contraction. Participants: A total of 50 healthy subjects aged 18-30 were randomly recruited. Methods and Analysis: Subjects were seated in a high sitting position on the chair. A 4 mm board was placed under the sole except the toes. Participants were instructed to flex their great toe through a rope assembly attached to the modified digital dynamometer which was placed on a stable surface. The device measured the great toe flexor muscle strength in kilograms. The values were recorded independently by three observers and later values were converted into Newton. Result: The device shows excellent inter-rater reliability with an r value of 0.97, relative to FHL muscle strength. Conclusion: The tool is reliable in evaluating muscle strength through maximum voluntary contraction of the Flexor hallucis longus muscle, contributing to its potential use in clinical or research settings.