What does a score of 5/5 in manual muscle testing indicate?

A score of 5/5 in manual muscle testing indicates normal strength against maximal resistance. This means that the muscle exhibits full strength and can hold against substantial pressure applied by the examiner. In clinical practice, this score is typically assigned when the patient can complete the movement through the full range against gravity and is able to resist the examiner’s force without any breaks in the contraction.

Understanding this scoring is crucial for evaluating a patient’s muscle strength and making informed decisions about their rehabilitation program. It reflects optimal performance of the muscle being tested, showing that it is functioning properly and capable of handling normal daily activities without limitation.

The other options refer to varying degrees of muscle strength. A score indicating fair strength would suggest some ability to oppose gravity but not against maximal resistance, while other options imply either a lack of contraction or very weak contraction. These scores help in the differential diagnosis and assessing the extent of muscle impairment or dysfunction.