PHT 1261C Tests and Measurements Dr. Kane

 Definition – anthropometry ◦ What is it? ◦ Why is it important?

 Edema  Localized swelling  Joint effusion  Muscular changes  Asymmetry of body parts  Effects of surgical procedures

 Aids clinician in determining pt.'s impairments to provide the appropriate treatment  Provides baseline data information to monitor progress and outcomes  Provides feedback & motivation for patients  Aids in designing equipment and materials for special populations  Provides info in design of objects and spaces used by normal population

 Tape Measure  Steel Tape  Volumeter  Anthropometer  Calipers  Perometry – infrared laser  Bioimpedence

Measurement Tools

 Measure in cm  Place the tape measure flat on the body  The tape measure should be stretched out and not slack  If the segment to be measured is irregular or conical in shape, the proximal part of the tape should be flat  When measuring circumference, surround the body part without undue constricting pressure

 Indications ◦ Upper Extremity  Arm  Forearm ◦ Lower Extremity  Thigh/Femur  Leg

 Indications  Upper Extremity ◦ Arm ◦ Forearm  Lower Extremity ◦ Thigh ◦ Leg  Other areas ◦ Hands, feet, waist, hips, head

 Indications  True (anatomical) vs. Apparent (functional) ◦ A difference of 1.0 to 1.5 cm is still considered normal but may be symptomatic ◦ Valid & Reliable ◦ Sources of error – muscle bulk, clothing, palpation

 True Leg Length ◦ ASIS ◦ Medial Malleolus ◦ Lateral Malleolus  Specific location of difference ◦ ASIS to greater trochanter – hip valgus/varus ◦ Greater trochanter to lateral joint line – femur ◦ Medial joint line of knee to medial malleolus – tibia  Interpreting results

 Apparent Leg Length ◦ Indications ◦ Landmarks:  Umbilicus  Medial Malleolus ◦ Interpretation

Common etiologies of true leg length discrepancies: Idiopathic developmental abnormality Fracture Trauma to epiphyseal plate Legg-Calve Perthes Disease Malignancies Infections

Common etiologies of apparent leg length discrepancies: Soft tissue shortening Joint contractures Ligamentous laxity Foot mechanics LBP Scoliosis

Indirect Method of Measuring Leg Length - done through palpation of bony landmarks such as the ASIS or the iliac crest - use of blocks of given thickness