Guide to Goniometry: Types, Uses, and Measurement Techniques
Introduction to Goniometry
Goniometry is an integral tool in a physical therapy regimen: it measures the ROM of a particular joint. It assesses limitations in movement; it trails and tracks rehabilitation progress and directs treatment plans. The main device used, the goniometer, has two limbs- one fixed in place; and the other able to move- joined by a hinge. By orienting the limbs at meaningful anatomical landmarks, therapists can accurately take the degree measurement of the angle of a joint.
Types of Goniometers
Universal Goniometer Types
Short Arm: Used for the measurement of smaller joints like the wrist, elbow, and ankle.
Long Arm: Used for longer levers of the knee and hip. It is more accurate.
Gravity Goniometer (Inclinometer)
It has a weighted pointer that remains vertical due to gravity. It is used for the measurement of the spine and limbs.
Smartphone-Based Goniometer
It uses the accelerometers of the smartphone to calculate the angle of the joint.
It is easy to use, accessible, and digital tracking through dedicated applications.
Arthrodial Goniometer
Specifically designed to measure cervical spine movements, such as rotation, flexion, and lateral flexion.
Twin Axis Electrogoniometer
Offers greater inter-rater and intra-rater reliability than universal goniometers.
Used more in research than in routine clinical assessments because of the difficulty in applying it.
How to Measure Joint Range of Motion with a Goniometer
Example 1: Shoulder Flexion (0° – 180°)
Testing Position:
- The patient lies supine with knees flexed. The palm faces medially with the thumb pointing up.
- The arm begins at the patient’s side
Goniometer Placement
- Axis Location: Middle of the humeral head, laterally.
- Stationary Arm: Parallel to the trunk.
- Movement Arm: Aligned with the midline of the humerus.
Example 2: Hip Flexion (0° – 120°)
Testing Position:
Patient is supine
Goniometer Placement
- Axis Location: Greater trochanter of the femur.
- Stationary Arm: Parallel to the trunk.
- Movement Arm: Parallel to the longitudinal axis of the femur, parallel to the lateral femoral condyle.
Conclusion
Goniometry is an essential component of the assessment in physiotherapeutic practice, and use becomes crucial for proper measurement of the active ROM of the joint. Correct placement by the therapist allows better diagnosis and improves monitoring of patient-based outcomes. Modern tools in the form of smartphone-based goniometers provide a means of simplification while measuring, thus making goniometry a useful and dynamic tool in rehabilitation.
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