How Technology like Hand-held Dynamometry is Changing Recovery

How Technology like Hand-held Dynamometry is Changing Recovery

Technological innovation is rapidly reshaping healthcare—and physiotherapy is no exception. One of the most significant advancements in recent years is the use of objective strength and movement testing. Tools such as hand-held dynamometers and force plates are elevating the way we assess, treat, and monitor recovery, helping patients achieve better outcomes, faster.

At Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic, we combine years of clinical experience with the latest evidence-based technology to deliver precise, tailored care—so our patients don’t just get treatment, they get results they can see and feel.

From Guesswork to Precision: The Value of Objective Data

Traditionally, strength assessments have relied on manual muscle testing and clinician observation. While clinical experience is vital, these methods can lack consistency and precision, especially across different practitioners.

Now, with hand-held dynamometry, we can accurately measure muscle strength in Newtons or kilograms, allowing for repeatable, reliable data. This tool helps us identify specific muscle deficits and quantify progress over time.

Likewise, force plates provide in-depth data on balance, force production, and movement efficiency. This is especially valuable during return-to-sport testing, post-operative rehab, or any situation where subtle deficits in movement mechanics may impact recovery.

Trustworthy Care: These tools are used by elite sports programs, research facilities, and progressive clinics worldwide. Our team has the expertise to interpret these results and translate them into meaningful, actionable rehab programs.

Why This Matters for Your Recovery

Objective testing takes the guesswork out of rehabilitation. Instead of prescribing a broad range of generalised exercises and hoping for improvement, we can now be highly specific and targeted in our approach—like a skilled marksman knowing exactly what the target is, instead of a shotgun approach where lots of pellets are shot hoping one does the trick.

Here’s how this benefits your recovery:

• Faster improvements with fewer setbacks
• Targeted, personalised exercise programs often resulting in fewer exercises and reduced time dedicated to rehabilitation
• Measurable progress at every stage of recovery
• Clear reporting for GPs, surgeons, and other care providers

You don’t need to rely solely on how your body feels—we show you real-time results that confirm you’re progressing in the right direction.

A Real-World Example: Post-ACL Surgery

If you’ve undergone ACL reconstruction, you’ll know how critical the rehab journey is. Historically, decisions around returning to sport or activity were based on timeframes and subjective assessments.

Now, using tools like hand-held dynamometers and force plates, we can evaluate:

• Limb-to-limb muscle strength imbalances and know when you are ready to progress through the stages of rehab

• Jump-landing force symmetry; are your muscles absorbing load or are other structures being stressed?

• Gait mechanics and dynamic load distribution through sport specific movements

This means we can confidently guide your return to sport when your body is truly ready, reducing your risk of reinjury and building trust in the process.

Experience Meets Innovation

At Malvern Physio, our clinicians have decades of combined experience across musculoskeletal, sports, post-surgical, and specific pathology based rehabilitation. But it’s not just about the technology—we know how to use it effectively.

We apply clinical reasoning, expert observation, and patient education alongside objective data to ensure each treatment plan is accurate, safe, and tailored to your goals.

Expertise in Action: Knowing what the numbers mean—and how to apply them to real-world rehab—is what separates quality care from guesswork.

Who Can Benefit?

Objective testing isn’t just for elite athletes. We use this technology every day to support:

• Post-operative rehabilitation (knee surgery including ACL, shoulder reconstructions, joint replacements or resurfacing)
• Sporting injuries and those who are wanting to recover in the shortest timeframe and have least likelihood of recurrence
• Repetitive activity injuries such as repeated calf muscle injuries, tendon injuries, ITB overload
• Assessing symmetry in your body when running, swimming, cycling or any physical activity or sport
• Chronic pain (e.g. low back pain, gluteal tendinopathy)
• Older adults working on strength, balance, and falls prevention

Whether you’re looking to return to elite-level performance or simply regain strength and mobility, our data-led assessments help you move forward with confidence.

Book Your Strength Assessment

If you’re recovering from injury or surgery—or feel like your progress has plateaued—a strength assessment using hand-held dynamometry can uncover key insights into your recovery needs.

To learn more or book an assessment, contact Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic today or visit www.malvernphysio.com.au

Written by Mark Fotheringham

Mark Fotheringham is the Principal Physiotherapist and Director of Malvern Physiotherapy Clinic. With over 20 years of clinical experience, Mark has a special interest in musculoskeletal and sports physiotherapy, complex injury rehabilitation, and post-operative recovery.

He holds a Bachelor of Physiotherapy and has undergone extensive postgraduate training in strength testing, load management, and advanced biomechanical assessment. Mark has worked with recreational athletes through to elite performers, using objective tools such as hand-held dynamometry and force plates to inform evidence-based, tailored rehabilitation programs.

As a clinician, educator, and practice owner, Mark is committed to combining hands-on expertise with the latest technologies to ensure accurate diagnosis, precise treatment, and measurable recovery outcomes. He is passionate about empowering patients through data-driven care that is both personalised and proven.

 

Published August 11, 2025