Evaluation of functional capacity and clinical outcomes in healthy female college students: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Objectives

This study was aimed at comparing step-up-and-down (SUD) test performance between the dominant and non-dominant lower limbs, and examining the association between isokinetic strength measures and functional performance in college students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 39 healthy females. Participants performed the SUD test on both lower limbs. The isokinetic strength of the knee extensors was assessed at angular velocities of 60°/s and 180°/s with a calibrated isokinetic dynamometer.

Results

No significant differences were observed in SUD test performance between the dominant and non-dominant limbs (p > 0.05). Significant moderate negative correlations were found between SUD performance and isokinetic strength measures. SUD time with the dominant limb correlated with peak torque (ρ = −0.40, p = 0.02), average torque (ρ = −0.36, p = 0.04), and average power (ρ = −0.61, p < 0.001), whereas SUD time with the non-dominant limb correlated with average power (ρ = −0.41, p = 0.02). Therefore, greater muscular strength was associated with faster functional performance.

Conclusions

Although no significant functional differences were observed, integrating isokinetic strength testing with functional assessments enables more comprehensive evaluation of lower-limb performance, enhances the detection of subtle strength–function discrepancies, and supports targeted, individualized rehabilitation and preventive strategies.