PHT 1261C Tests and Measurements
Dr. Kane
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Definition – anthropometry
◦ What is it?
◦ Why is it important?
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Edema
Localized swelling
Joint effusion
Muscular changes
Asymmetry of body parts
Effects of surgical procedures
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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
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Tape Measure
Steel Tape
Volumeter
Anthropometer
Calipers
Perometry – infrared laser
Bioimpedence
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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
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Indications
◦ Upper Extremity
 Arm
 Forearm
◦ Lower Extremity
 Thigh/Femur
 Leg
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Indications
Upper Extremity
◦ Arm
◦ Forearm
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Lower Extremity
◦ Thigh
◦ Leg
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Other areas
◦ Hands, feet, waist, hips, head
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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
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True Leg Length
◦ ASIS
◦ Medial Malleolus
◦ Lateral Malleolus
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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
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Interpreting results
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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:
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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