The following data were collected by measuring the range of

The following data were collected by measuring the range of motion (ROM) at various joints with a goniometer: What conclusions can you make about this individuals flexibility?

Solution

The angular distance moved by a joint in place in our body is said to be its Range of Motion (ROM). It is measured in degrees. Every joint has a specific range of motion. The instruments used for measuring range of motion are goniometer and inclinometer. As an individual’s age increases, the ROM of its joints decreases. We can also access an individuals’ or a fossils’ age using the concept of range of motion.

The shoulder of human body has highest range of motion. Best shoulder abduction is 0-180 degrees. This person’s shoulder abduction has been given as average 95 degrees. This means that there is stiffness in the shoulder muscle.

Elbow flexion value ranges from 0-150 degree. This person’s elbow flexion is average 55 degree. This value is indeed very less. Muscle movement is less.

Ideally elbow extension value should be zero; but here it is 89 degree. This means that bones at the elbow joint have become very soft. This is an age related factor.

Ideally hip abduction is 0-45 degree and hip adduction is 0-30 degree. This is nearing perfection in this person.

Ideally knee flexion should be 0-135 degree. This person’s knee flexion is 140 degree; again indicating softness of bones.

The individual’s flexibility in hip area is good, it is ok in knee. But when we take about elbow and shoulder, the flexibility is less than half of the ideal value. This person should take regular shoulder and elbow exercises to improve flexibility of this area.