Upper cervical spine flexor muscles: age related performance in asymptomatic women

Isometric strength and endurance of the upper cervical flexor muscles were assessed in 54 moderately active asymptomatic females, with specific reference to anyage related differences. Subjects, chosen from asample of convenience, were categorised into three age groups, 20 – 25, 40 – 45 and 60 – 65 years. Strength (kiloponds (kp)) and endurance were measured by subjects flexing their chin against a metal bar to which strain gauges were attached. Endurance (seconds) was measured and defined as the time that subjects could hold atleast 50 percent of an initial maximal voluntary contraction (MVC). Normal values were established for the sample population. Mean strength values for the three age groups, 20 – 25, 40 – 45 and 60 – 65 years were 3.4, 3.5 and 3.4kp and endurance values were 65, 59 and 41 seconds respectively. There was no significant relationship between strength and age or endurance and age.