Test Positioning

When testing range of motion, it is extremely important to use bony landmarks to know where you should place your goniometer. This makes your measurements reliable and also repeatable for when you test range of motion again or if another therapist checks the range of motion of the same client. You also need to make sure to position your client correctly. This ensures that the client is able to perform full range of motion of the joint being tested without any other part of the body coming in the way.
When looking at MMT, the "test position" is important so that the client is in the position for optimal muscle contraction. Most levers in the human body are at a mechanical disadvantage. So, moving the limb into this "test position", which is usually at the middle of the movement, will ensure that is where the lever is at its optimal strength. Using the gravity eliminated position is very important for clients low strength. You always try MMT in an against gravity position first but if the client is too weak, then the gravity eliminated position is the next step. This position is always parallel to the ground and sometimes calls for the therapist to hold the weight of the limb that is being tested.

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