Force
This document provides a comprehensive overview of the force dynamometer app, including setup, operation, and troubleshooting tips for clinicians using the device to measure isometric strength in patients.
Table of Contents
Getting Started
Device Overview
System Requirements
Bluetooth Pairing
Running a Force Test
Selecting a Client
Adding a New Test
Starting a Test
Viewing Test Results
Understanding Test Data
Live Force Graph
Peak Force Measurement
Maximum Voluntary Contraction (MVC)
Target Zone Settings
Available Tests
Saving and Submitting Tests
Editing and Deleting Tests
Settings and Adjustments
Troubleshooting & FAQs
1. Getting Started
Device Overview
The Newton ForcePod is a handheld and rack-mounted device that connects via Bluetooth to the Newton Metrics app. It allows clinicians to measure isometric force output across different joints and positions.
System Requirements
Compatible Devices: iOS & Android smartphones with Bluetooth 4.0+
App Version: Ensure you have the latest version of the Newton Metrics app installed.
Permissions Required: Enable Bluetooth and location services for device pairing.
Bluetooth Pairing
Power on the device and ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone.
Open the Newton Metrics app and navigate to the Force section.
Tap the Bluetooth icon to start scanning.
Select the force dynamometer from the available devices list.
Once connected, a confirmation message will appear.
If the connection fails, ensure the device is within range and fully charged. Restart both the app and the force dynamometer if needed.
The ForcePod displays the following lights:
BLUE: flashing blue when ready to pair
GREEN: solid green when successfully paired
RED: set-up or other error
2. Running a Force Test
Selecting a Client
Before running a test, select a client from the patient database.
If no client is selected, a message will prompt you to choose one.
Adding a New Test
Tap Add Test to open the test selection menu.
Choose the Joint and Movement (i.e. Knee Flexion) from the predefined list.
Confirm the selection to add it to the test list.
Starting a Test
Tap the Start button next to the desired test.
Select the side being tested (Left/Right).
A countdown timer will begin to cue the patient.
The patient applies maximal isometric force for 5 seconds.
Repeat the test at least once. The app will save the highest value per side.
The highest force recorded is displayed in real time.
Viewing Test Results
After the test, results are displayed as left and right peak forces, with trend analysis
Tapping the down arrow displays an interactive chart that shows results (peak force in % bodyweight and percentile score for age group).
The live Force Graph shows force output over time.
Data points are logged for analysis.
3. Understanding Test Data
Live Force Graph
The force graph updates in real time, displaying force output along the X-axis (time) and Y-axis (force magnitude).
Peak Force Measurement
The peak force is the maximum force the patient exerted during the test.
If MVC Mode is enabled, the peak force is compared to the Maximum Voluntary Contraction (MVC) for percentage-based analysis.
Maximum Voluntary Contraction (MVC)
MVC is a reference value clinicians can use to compare test results.
Select MVC Mode to view force output as a percentage of MVC.
Target Zone Settings
You can set a target range (e.g., 65% - 85% MVC) to guide patient effort.
Adjust this in the settings menu using the slider.
4. Available Tests
The Newton Metrics Force Dynamometer allows measurement of various isometric strength tests, categorized by joint and movement pattern:
Neck
Flexion
Extension
Lateral Flexion
Shoulder
Flexion (90°) - Supine
Extension (90°) - Supine
Internal Rotation (90°) - Supine
External Rotation (90°) - Supine
Internal Rotation (45°) - Supine
External Rotation (45°) - Supine
Internal Rotation (Neutral) - Supine
External Rotation (Neutral) - Supine
Abduction - Sidelying
Adduction - Sidelying
Athletic Shoulder Test (180°) - Prone
Athletic Shoulder Test (135°) - Prone
Athletic Shoulder Test (90°) - Prone
Elbow
Flexion - Supine
Extension - Supine
Wrist
Hand Grip - Seated
Extension - Seated
Flexion - Seated
Hip
Flexion (90°) - Seated
Extension - Prone
Abduction (Neutral) - Sidelying
Adduction (Neutral) - Sidelying
External Rotation - Sidelying
Internal Rotation - Sidelying
Knee
Flexion (30°) - Prone
Flexion (90°) - Prone
Flexion (90-90°) - Supine
Extension (60°) - Seated
Extension (90°) - Seated
Ankle
Plantarflexion (Seated)
Plantarflexion (Standing)
Dorsiflexion - Supine
Inversion - Supine
Eversion - Supine
Toe Flexion - Supine
Toe Extension - Supine
5. Saving and Submitting Tests
After completing tests, tap Finish to submit the data.
A pop-up will ask for patient body weight (required for normalized force analysis).
If using the free plan, saving test data may require a subscription.
6. Editing and Deleting Tests
Editing a Test
Tap on an existing test to modify values.
You can manually enter left/right force values and injury status.
Deleting a Test
Swipe left on a test row and tap Delete.
This will remove the test permanently from the session.
7. Settings and Adjustments
The settings page allows clinicians to adjust key parameters:
Units of Measure
Pounds (Lbs)
Kilograms (Kg)
Newtons (N)
Test Duration
Adjustable duration for force tests
Default set to 5 seconds, can be customized using a picker
Target Zone Range
Set force target range as a percentage of MVC
Customizable through a slider interface
8. Troubleshooting & FAQs
Common Issues
Bluetooth Connection Fails
Ensure the force dynamometer is powered on and blinking blue
Restart Bluetooth on your device.
Move closer to the force dynamometer.
Restart the app and try again.
No Force Data Appears
Check if the device is properly connected.
Ensure the patient is applying force correctly.
Verify that the force dynamometer battery is charged.
Cannot Save Test Data
Ensure you have an active subscription (for paid features).
Complete all required fields before submitting.
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