If you have sustained a wrist injury, or undergone surgery and find yourself in physiotherapy, chances are your wrist will be measured to determine its range of motion. The tool used to measure range of motion is called a goniometer, which is basically a protractor with two arms that extend out. Range of motion is measured in degrees, and it describes how much movement is possible at a given joint. A goniometer can help in recovery to gauge your progress, and it is also useful in workplace ergonomics to help design work stations and equipment that won't tax the wrist joints.
Step 1
Lay your arm on a table, and allow your wrist to hang over the edge.
Step 2
Place the stationary arm of the goniometer tool along the forearm, and the arm that moves along the side of the hand. Ensure the axis of the tool is right where your hand and arm meet.
Step 3
Measure the range of motion in the wrist flexor by bending your wrist downward as far as you can. Note the degree reading between the endpoints of the goniometer, and record them.
Step 4
Measure the range of motion of the wrist extensor. Bend the wrist upward as far as you can, then move the arm of the goniometer to record the degrees.
Step 5
Lie the goniometer's stationary arm flat along the top of your forearm. The axis should be even with the spot where your hand and arm meet. Measure the radial deviation in your wrist, by bending it inward. Move the goniometer arm and record the range of motion.
Step 6
Measure the ulnar deviation of your wrist, by bending your wrist out to the side. Move the arm of the goniometer so it is even with your hand and record the range of motion.
Things You'll Need
- Goniometer
