Biomechanics Test Positioning

Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) helps to measure muscle strength and function as well as data collection. By positioning a patient, focusing on a specific plane of movement and building resistance, the examiner can determine the grades from 0-5, or fair+ through normal. 

It is important to use bony landmarks when measuring range of motion (ROM) so that you can position the goniometer at the correct point of axis and stabilize the proximal joint to produce the most accurate results. The stationary arm of the goniometer should align with the bone that remains fixed during the joint motion while the moving arm should aligned with the mobile joint. It is also important to use proper positioning to ensure you are measuring the correct angle while also ensuring you client is safe and comfortable. A client's progress or regression can also be measured when using bony landmarks and proper positioning properly. 

The "test position" for MMT is the position in which the muscle is placed in for optimal muscle contraction and will give the examiner the best score of a clients muscle strength. MMT can be performed in an Against Gravity position or a Gravity Eliminated position. An Against Gravity position is perpendicular to the ground and if a client cannot complete the test in this position, they receive less than 3 out of 5 score on the MMT scale. The client will then be placed in a Gravity Eliminated position where they are parallel to the ground in order to look at just the movement with no resistance applied. This can allow the client to move without the force of gravity so the examiner can see their muscle ability.