Importance of Test Positioning

          When a client comes in for the initial evaluation for therapy it is always important to use the correct bony landmarks and place them in the correct position when measuring ROM because it allows the therapist to obtain correct measurements when performing the tests. Having the correct measurements will allow the therapist to build the proper treatment plan for the client so that they can accomplish their goals. Using the correct landmarks and positions is also important so that there is consistency in between practitioners. For example, if for some reason you are unable to make it to work one day and your client is seeing another therapist, it is important that you are both consistent with your measuring. This ensure the client receives accurate measurements and care from each therapist and gives them the reassurance that we are on the same page. When a therapist is performing MMT (Manual Muscle Testing) it is always important to place the client in the correct "testing position" so that you can accurately gauge whether or not they can resist the force of gravity or what the therapist applies to them. You wouldn't want to test a clients hip flexion strength standing up if they just had hip surgery. That could cause severe harm to the client. This is where the importance of of the gravity eliminated position comes into play. When you are testing a client in a gravity eliminated position, the area you are testing will be moving parallel to the ground. This is important because it ensures the client's affected area is not performing any work that could cause injury. For example, if you have a client who recently underwent surgery, you would want to test them in. a gravity eliminated position so you can accurately measure their strength without causing harm to the client. Client safety is one of the most important things to consider when you are testing ROM or performing a MMT.