Measuring posture is important when we are evaluating our patients. Understanding the clinical presentation of our patients allows the clinician to further understand how this may influence their respective impairments and functional limitations. However, sometimes we do not possess the necessary tools to objectively measure posture. Thankfully, there are available evaluation tools to measure posture and alignment.
1. Baseline® Large Joint Protractor:
Measure range-of-motion for all major articulations, cervical rotation, lateral flexion of the head and anterior-posterior cervical flexion. Bubble level assures measurement is made on horizontal plane.
2. Baseline® Adjustable Wall Goniometer:
Baseline® posture evaluation instruments provide accurate and repeatable measurements. Used to measure thoracic and lumbar ROM, lateral and forward flexion, and extension of the spine. Height adjustable goniometer can be adjusted to align with the client’s L4 and L5 axis points for measurements.
3. Baseline® Posture Evaluator:
Baseline® posture evaluator provides accurate and repeatable measurements. Use the angle pointer to find and measure alignment.
4. Baseline® Posture Grid:
Baseline® posture evaluation instruments provide accurate and repeatable measurements. Use to evaluate posture. The plastic posture grid (25″x48″) can be suspended from the ceiling or wall bracket. Set includes a suspension cord and a plumb bob to measure alignment.
5. Baseline® Body Level:
Determine whether body parts are properly aligned. Place the moveable arms on two sites. Read the amount of tilt (in degrees) from the scale. Ideal for Scoliosis screening.
6. Baseline® Scoliosis Meter – Metal:
Measurements can detect scoliosis and abnormal anteroposterior curve. It also measures the unstable lumbosacral, cervical and thoracic curves. The scale measures in centimeters, inches, and degrees.
7. Baseline® Scoliosis Meter – Plastic Economy:
Measures the degree of rotation of a deformity of the back. Use it to screen which persons to refer for further medical evaluation. The product is 3.5″ x 7.5″ and comes with a storage pouch.
As you can see, there are many different methods on how to measure posture. Each instrument can help identify pertinent objective data to help guide the course of care. This information will allow clinicians to help develop the most appropriate plan of care to ensure the patient is guided in the right direction.
Find the right instrument that works best for you and your patient.
To learn more about Alignment Evaluation Tools, click here.
Article Written By Eric Trauber, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, FAAOMPT