A Goniometer is mostly used by Physiotherapists to check for range of motion in joints, such as the knee, shoulder,wrist or hip. If you’ve ever wondered how it is being used, these tips below will be of help.
- Place the dynamic (moving) part on the moving limb: The first thing to do is to ensure that the dynamic part of the goniometer is aligned with the moving part of the limb. Also, ensure that the part of the goniometer that is like a protractor is firmly placed on the joint. Ensure that it is placed in the middle or centre.
- Place the stationary part of the goniometer on the limb you intend measuring: Depending on which of the joints you want to measure, make sure the stationary part of the goniometer is placed on the other part of the limb which will not be moved. Ensure that the fulcrum of the goniometer is on the centre of the joint.
- Move the joint and the moving part of the goniometer: In order to measure the range of motion, you have to move the limb and then, move the arm of the goniometer to meet with the limb which was moved. Take a look at the protractor and record the angle. This is same as the range of motion of the limb.
