Measuring ROM and MMT

Using bony landmarks and proper positioning for measuring range of motion (ROM) is important to ensure you are measuring correctly. The bony landmarks will help you position your goniometer, for instance putting the fulcrum at the correct axis of the joint. Palpating bony landmarks and paying close attention to the positioning of the client both ensure validity and reliability. If the client has multiple therapists measuring ROM, each therapist should be using the same procedures for palpating and positioning the client. 

The test position for manual muscle testing (MMT) is the position at which the optimal amount of cross bridges of actin and myosin are made, which is the mid-range position within the available ROM for that client. Positioning is important for MMT to facilitate the greatest contraction against gravity. If the client doesn’t have full range of motion against gravity, then they should be positioned in a way that eliminates gravity. In order to do this, the muscle that is being measured should be placed parallel to the ground so that gravity is eliminated, therefore resistance is eliminated. 

Until next time,

Sam the Student