ROM/MMT Test Positioning

Biomechanics Blog 2:  

In this blog post, I will be discussing the importance of test positioning for ROM and MMT testing. Test positioning is essential when you are performing ROM and MMT assessments as an Occupational Therapist. This is because in order to get the most accurate and efficient read of the assessment, you need to have the proper start position.

First, when measuring the proper ROM it is important to be aware of the bony landmarks of the body part you are palpating for testing. This will cue you into certain abnormalities, obstructions or if it feels healthy. This will also allow you to be able to place your goniometer in the correct zero position on the fixed body part you need to be tested. As Occupational Therapist, we need to be accurate in this area of making sure we are palpating and pointing our goniometer to the correct landmark to be as accurate as we can for our client’s ROM testing.

MMT scoring is a little bit different from ROM when it comes to getting our client in the proper position. The MMT testing positions are to help the client get the best possible resistance or generate the ample amount of force needed for testing. The test position is also for the OT to be able to provide the counter force to determine the most accurate MMT score. Another start position to test in is the gravity eliminated position. It is relevant for clients who struggle with having no strength in their sessions, or for clients that have a limited ROM. This will put the patient side lying and make it much easier to work against the natural gravitational pull. Overall, test positioning is very important in order to put your client’s best comfort level first and get the most accurate results when performing the test.

Enjoy this picture of Olivia and I
(not in class LOL) practicing
some shoulder flexion and abduction :-)