Comparison of two methods of goniometry.

ABSTRACT

This investigation was conducted to determine if there are significant differences between the lateral and the over-the-joint methods of goniometry for measurements of the elbow joint. Forty physical therapy students with previous goniometric training were divided randomly into four goniometric measurement groups 1) lateral method for an obtuse angle, 2) lateral method for an acute angle, 3) over-the-joint method for an obtuse angle, and 4) over-the-joint method for an acute angle. All students in each group participated in four sessions during which a proctor's elbow joint was measured according to the method of the assigned goniometric measurement group. The joint was held in a fixed position by a plywood stabilizing device. The results of a three-factor analysis of variance with repeated measures on one factor showed that there was no difference between the lateral and the over-the-joint methods of goniometric measurement of the elbow joint.