Test Positioning

 Biomechanics Blog 2: Test Positioning 

Using bony landmarks is something that is used in measuring rang of motion (ROM) Bony landmarks give therapists a consistent and non changing reference point to start at. Every person is a different shape and size, but our bones are all in the same place. This way we are consistent when measuring. If you are measuring someones shoulder flexion every week but start at a different spot every time, the measurements will always be flawed. If you start at the same bony landmark it will give a consistent point of contact to measure from. The purpose of a proper test position for manual muscle testing (MMT) is related to the reasoning for using bone landmarks in ROM. It provides a proper start position that we can use with every single client. This is to keep the test as valid and reliable as possible. The client could be tested by multiple practitioners, but as long as we well do the same exact protocol, we should all get very close results. To me, these seem like "universal" rules for ROM and MMT. anyone who does these correctly can and will get close results. This is to make sure the client is doing the same test in the same position as well. This test position includes the clients structure being tested to be places in a mid-range position. This position is the best because it has the most cross bridges in the muscle to create the best force production. It also sets the client up to have the best results possible while giving proper effort. 

Gravity eliminating positions are positions in which the client can perform a MMT without he effects of gravity against them. These clients could be weaker, and need some assistance in order to perform this test. They are given the opportunity to show their muscle function without having extra factors, in this case gravity, against them. This is more of a neutral position, as it is performed parallel to the ground.