Goniometric Measurements: Arom Or Prom?

Goniometry is the art and science of measuring the joint ranges in each plane of the joint. The term 'goniometry' is derived from the Greek words 'gonia' (angle) and 'metron' (measure). A goniometer is a device used to measure angles or to permit the rotation of an object to a definite position. In orthopaedics, it is used to measure the range of motion in joints. Goniometric measurements can be taken in two ways: active range of motion (AROM) and passive range of motion (PROM). AROM is a measurement of the individual's capability to move a joint through its normal arc of motion, while PROM is a measurement of the ability of the joint to be moved by an external source.

Goniometry is the art and science of measuring the joint ranges in each plane of the joint

Goniometry is used in rehabilitation settings to assess a patient's range of motion (ROM) in a particular joint. A goniometer is the most common instrument used to measure ROM. If a patient has an altered ROM in a particular joint, a therapist can use a goniometer to assess the range of motion at the initial assessment and then use it in subsequent sessions to assess the effectiveness of the intervention.

There are different types of goniometers, including universal goniometers, twin-axis electrogoniometers, gravity goniometers/inclinometers, and smartphone-based goniometers. Universal goniometers are the most widely used and come in two forms: short-arm and long-arm. Short-arm goniometers are used for smaller joints like the wrist, elbow, or ankle, while long-arm goniometers are more accurate for joints with long levers like the knee and hip.

Goniometry technique is important to ensure accurate measurements. This includes positioning and stabilising the joint correctly, moving the body part through its appropriate range of motion, determining the joint's end-feel, palpating the bony landmarks, aligning the goniometer, and recording measurements correctly. The range of motion of each joint should be measured in isolation to avoid trick movement and muscle insufficiency, which may alter the reading.

Goniometry has various clinical applications, including the presence of dysfunction related to muscles, tendons, or joints, establishing a diagnosis, developing treatment goals, evaluating progress, modifying treatment, fabricating orthoses, and measurements for research purposes. It is important to note that goniometry should not be used to measure active range of motion in certain conditions, such as post-surgery or in regions of osteoporosis, as it may cause iatrogenic injuries.

The reliability of goniometry measurements depends on the type of goniometer used, the joint being assessed, and the examiner's experience. Overall, universal goniometers have been shown to have good to excellent reliability, especially with clear instructions on goniometric alignment. To improve accuracy, it is recommended that the same therapist performs all measurements using the same goniometer and standardised methods, with assessments conducted at the same time of day.

A goniometer is a device that measures an angle or permits the rotation of an object to a definite position

A goniometer is a device that measures an angle or allows an object to be rotated to a precise angular position. The term originates from the Greek words "gonia", meaning angle, and "metron", meaning measure.

Goniometry is the science of measuring the range of motion in joints and is used by doctors, osteopaths, physical therapists, and other health professionals. The standard goniometer has two arms and is placed over the joint being measured. One arm is aligned with the inactive part of the joint, while the other is aligned with the mobile part. The goniometer can then be used to measure the range of motion of the joint, either passively or actively.

There are several types of goniometers, including universal goniometers, twin-axis electrogoniometers, gravity goniometers, and smartphone-based goniometers. Universal goniometers come in short-arm and long-arm varieties, with the former being used for smaller joints like the wrist, and the latter for larger joints like the hip. Smartphone-based goniometers have the benefit of being easily accessible and can track measurements over time.

Goniometers are used to establish a diagnosis, develop treatment goals, evaluate progress, and modify treatment as needed. They are also used to fabricate orthoses and for research purposes. However, they should not be used to measure the active range of motion in certain conditions, such as post-surgery or in cases of osteoporosis, as this may cause further injury.

Goniometric measurements are useful in a variety of clinical scenarios, such as mapping spine mobility in cases of ankylosing spondylitis or checking the range of motion after scoliosis surgery. They can also be used to evaluate Waddell's signs, which are findings that may indicate symptom magnification.

Goniometers are most commonly used to measure passive range of motion (PROM)

The use of goniometers is especially important in the rehabilitation process. They can be used to increase a person's range of motion back to their pre-injury baseline. Goniometers can also be used to measure active range of motion (AROM), which is when a person moves a joint on their own by contracting their muscles.

There are three types of goniometers: universal goniometers, twin-axis electrogoniometers, and gravity goniometers/inclinometers. Universal goniometers are the most widely used and come in two forms: short-arm and long-arm. Short-arm goniometers are used for smaller joints like the wrist, elbow, or ankle, while long-arm goniometers are more accurate for joints with long levers like the knee and hip joints.

Goniometry, the art and science of measuring the joint ranges in each joint plane, originates from two Greek words: "gonia," meaning angle, and "metron," meaning to measure. The first known use of a primitive version of the modern-day goniometer was by a Dutch physician and mathematician named Gemma Frisius, who used it to calculate and record the position of celestial bodies with respect to the earth.

Goniometers have limited validity and reliability

Goniometers are used to measure the range of motion in joints and are considered a valid clinical tool. However, they have limited validity and reliability due to several factors. Firstly, goniometers assume a fixed axis of rotation for each joint, which may not always be accurate. The reliability of goniometric measurements can vary depending on the joint being measured, the experience of the clinician, and the specific type of goniometer used.

The reliability of goniometers has been assessed in several studies with varying results. Some studies have found high inter-rater and intra-rater reliability for goniometric measurements, especially when the same clinician performs all the measurements. However, other studies have reported lower reliability, particularly when different clinicians are involved. The type of goniometer used also seems to impact reliability, with the twin-axis electrogoniometer having higher reliability than the universal goniometer. Additionally, the specific joint being measured can affect reliability, as some joints are more challenging to measure accurately than others.

The validity of goniometric measurements has also been questioned. Some studies have compared goniometric measurements to radiographic images or other measurement devices and found discrepancies. The accuracy of goniometric measurements depends on proper alignment with bony landmarks, which can be difficult to achieve consistently, especially in certain patient populations. Additionally, goniometers require two hands to operate, which can make stabilization of the joint more difficult.

In conclusion, while goniometers are widely used and generally considered valid, they do have limitations in terms of reliability and validity. These limitations can impact the accuracy of clinical assessments and may lead to incorrect diagnoses or treatment decisions. It is important for clinicians to be aware of these limitations and consider using alternative measurement devices or techniques when necessary.

Goniometry is best suited to one-off passive range of motion measurements

Goniometry is the practice of measuring the joint ranges in each plane of the joint. The term comes from the Greek words 'gonia', meaning angle, and 'metron', meaning measure. Goniometry is used to measure angles in each plane at the joints of the body. A goniometer is a device that measures an angle or allows the rotation of an object to a definite position.

Another reason goniometry is well-suited to one-off passive range of motion measurements is that it is difficult to measure a patient's active range of motion (AROM) using a goniometer. It may not be possible to get the subject to hold certain positions in their maximal extension or flexion. Goniometry is also limited to single-joint measurements, which can make it time-consuming and impractical for holistic analysis.

Additionally, goniometry has problematic inter-rater reliability, which means that error can increase if multiple persons measure a subject using a goniometer due to inconsistent measurement methodology. This highlights the importance of having the same therapist perform all measures to improve accuracy.

In summary, goniometry is a valuable tool for one-off passive range of motion measurements due to its accuracy, ease of use, and affordability. However, it has limitations when it comes to measuring active range of motion and holistic analysis, and consistent measurement methods are crucial to ensuring accurate results.

Frequently asked questions