Shoulder Motion and Muscle Strength of Normal Men and Women in Two Age Groups

Abstract

Normal age- and sex-related standards for shoulder range of motion (ROM) and muscle strength are unavailable in the literature. Active range of shoulder motion and maximum isometric strength (torque) of several shoulder muscle groups were measured in normal healthy men and women between 25 and 36 and between 55 and 66 years of age. Values for joint motion were similar for the two age and sex groups. The strength of the women was 45% to 66% of that in men, and strength of the older subjects was 66% to 93% of that in younger subjects. Strength of the second attempt at contraction was greater than that of the first attempt. Arm dominance did not significantly affect strength values.