The Importance of Test Positioning:

Why is it important to use bony landmarks and proper positioning for measuring ROM?

It is important to use bony landmarks and proper positioning of the particular body part being measured to aid in the correct placement of the goniometer and to ensure accuracy and reliability of the ROM being recorded. This is also important for ensuring accuracy and reliability for retesting and in cases where there are multiple therapist recoding the ROM data. 

What is the purpose of the “test position” for MMT? 

The test position for MMT is important because it places the client’s body part being tested in the same “start” position every time the test is administered. This is important because it places the muscles, tissues, and joints in a safe stable position allowing the muscle being tested to start relaxed before resistance is applied. When reistance is applied from the MMT test position it allows for the most muscle contraction. It is also important that the correct start position be used so the data being collected on muscle strength is accurate and reliable for successive testing. This allows the therapist to chart how much and or if the client is making proper improvements in muscle strength. MMT test position also allows the therapist to see if the client is trying to use other muscle movements to compensate for the actual muscle being tested.

What is the relevance of the gravity eliminated position?

The relevance of the gravity eliminated position is to take away the pull/resistance of gravity during MMT for clients who are not able to withstand any amount of force to the muscle being tested and still possibly move it. Thus ensuring the therapist maintains the safety of the client first and foremost.