Goniometry

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Introduction

A goniometer is an instrument that measures the available range of motion at a joint. The art and science of measuring the joint ranges in each plane of the joint are called goniometry.  If a patient or client is suffering from decreased range of motion in a particular joint, the therapist can use a goniometer to assess what the range of motion is at the initial assessment, and then make sure the intervention is working by using the goniometer in subsequent sessions.

The term goniometry is derived from two Greek words, gonia, meaning "angle" and metron, meaning "measurement".

Goniometer have different types; the most used is the universal standard goniometer, which is either made with plastic or metal tool. It consists of a stationary arm, a movable arm and a fulcrum. Other types of goniometer used for joint range of motion measurement are the telescopic-armed goniometer and some smart phone applications.

Validity and reliability

There is some question as to whether or not a goniometer is a sufficiently valid and reliable instrument to determine whether an intervention has been effective . Some research argues that the reliability of the measurement gotten from a goniometer depends on the type used while some did not see any significant difference between some instruments

Techniques for using a goniometer

• It is necessary that a single notation system is used in goniometry. The neutral zero methods (0 to 180- degree system) is the most widely used method.
• The same goniometer should always be used to reduce the chances of instrumental error.
• The part of the body to be measured using a goniometer should be reasonably exposed and free.
• The range of motion of each joint should be measured in isolation, to avoid trick movement (simultaneous movement of another joint) and muscle insufficiency which may alter the reading.
• Both active and passive range of motion should be measured and recorded respectively.

Procedures

• Ankle (Subtalar) eversion.
• Ankle (Subtalar) inversion.
• Ankle (Talocrural) dorsiflexion.
• Ankle (Talocrural) plantarflexion.
• Elbow extension.
• Elbow flexion.
• Forearm pronation.
• Forearm supination.
• Hip abduction.
• Hip adduction.
• Hip extension.
• Hip flexion.
• Hip external rotation.
• Hip internal rotation.
• Knee extension.
• Knee flexion.
• Shoulder abduction.
• Shoulder flexion.
• Shoulder horizontal abduction.
• Shoulder internal and external rotation.
• Wrist extension.
• Wrist flexion.
• Wrist radial deviation.
• Wrist ulnar deviation.