Biomechanics #2

One of the terms that is constantly used in the world of Occupational Therapy is "Range of motion". Range of motion is the amount of motion that is available at a joint. When measuring range of motion it is important to use bony landmarks and proper positioning. In order to locate these bony landmarks, practitioners perform palpation. Palpation is the examination of the surface of the body using touch. 

In Occupational therapy, it is very important to locate these bony landmarks. These bony landmarks are needed to properly align the goniometer (the tool used for measuring range of motion). Properly aligning the goniometer ensures that you are getting the most accurate measurement possible and this, in turn, improves interrater as well as intrarater reliability. If the goniometer is not properly aligned, then the measurement will not be accurate and may effect the client's treatment plan and overall outcomes. It is also important to palpate the bony landmarks to identify any irregularities, to locate any bony segments that may need to be stabilized during testing, and to ensure the clients comfort and safety during testing. 

Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) is used to test muscle performance and help identify problems or deficits in muscle performance. In Manual Muscle Testing, the client is placed in the test position, which is about mid range of motion. The test position is a position in which the muscle is placed for optimal muscle contraction. This is important because it provides the most accurate information and allows the practitioner to properly score the client according to the MMT grading scale. After a client is placed in the testing position, the practitioner will apply resistance and instruct the client to push against them. If a client is unable to reach full range of motion when no resistance is applied (only gravity), a practitioner would place them in a gravity eliminated position. This position requires clients to be placed so that any movement they perform is parallel to the ground. This removes any resistance and allows practitioners to accurately access their muscle performance.