PHYSCI 121 Lecture Notes - Lecture 29: Goniometer, Contracture, Connective Tissue
Document Summary
Physical therapies and outcomes for dmd patients part 2. Goniometer - an instrument for the precise measurement of angles. Loss of range of motion & muscle contractures due: Imbalance of strength on two sides of a joint. Strength testing: manual muscle testing (mmt): 0-5 scale, hand-held dynamometer. Identify outliers from expected clinical course: assess response to treatment, monitor disease progression & predict functional loss. Why prevent and treat contractures: maintain ambulation as long as possible, reduce risk for pressure sores, postural alignment (feet on footrests, shoe wear) A muscle contracture is a permanent shortening of a muscle or joint. Once they form, they generally cannot be stretched or exercised away. If child can"t get foot flat on the floor, then they can"t get it in a good position. Lower extremities starting at diagnosis: upper extremities as disease progresses, ankle night splints (ambulatory, daytime bracing (non-ambulatory), can interfere with walking if worn for too long.
