A physical therapist positions a patient in supine in preparation for goniometric measurements. When measuring lateral rotation of the shoulder, where should the stationary arm of the goniometer be aligned?

1. On the lateral midline of the humerus using the lateral epicondyle as a reference 
2. Perpendicular to the floor 
3. Along the midaxillary line of the thorax 
4. Over the olecranon process

Transcript

Welcome back to the Scorebuilders’ Question and Answer Podcast! This podcast provides members of the Scorebuilders’ team with the opportunity to explore challenging multiple-choice examination questions with students actively preparing for the licensing examination. My name is Scott Giles and I will be your host for today’s journey.

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A physical therapist positions a patient in supine in preparation for goniometric measurements. When measuring lateral rotation of the shoulder, where should the stationary arm of the goniometer be aligned?

1. On the lateral midline of the humerus using the lateral epicondyle as a reference 
2. Perpendicular to the floor 
3. Along the midaxillary line of the thorax 
4. Over the olecranon process

Goniometry

Goniometry is the process of measuring angles, specifically the range of motion in the joints of the body. It involves using a device called a goniometer to determine the degree of movement at a joint in various planes. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons normal shoulder lateral rotation is 0-90 degrees.

Reminder

Remember the question is specifically asking – Where the therapist should position the stationary arm of the goniometer when measuring shoulder lateral rotation.

Let’s explore each of the options:

Option 1 – On the lateral midline of the humerus using the lateral epicondyle as a reference

The lateral midline of the humerus using the lateral epicondyle as a reference should be used to align the moveable arm of the goniometer when measuring shoulder flexion and extension. 

Option 2 – Perpendicular to the floor

The stationary arm of the goniometer should be aligned parallel or perpendicular to the floor when measuring lateral rotation of the shoulder. Boom!

Option 3 – Along the midaxillary line of the thorax

The midaxillary line of the thorax should be used to align the stationary arm of the goniometer when measuring shoulder flexion and extension.

Option 4 – Over the olecranon process

The fulcrum of the goniometer should be aligned over the olecranon process when measuring lateral rotation of the shoulder. The moveable arm of the goniometer should be aligned with the ulna, using the olecranon and ulnar styloid as a reference.

The correct answer is Option 2.

Let’s explore the all student data:

9% of students selected Option 1 – On the lateral midline of the humerus using the lateral epicondyle as a reference
62% of students selected Option 2 - Perpendicular to the floor – the correct response
12% of students selected Option 3 - Along the midaxillary line of the thorax
17% of students selected Option 4 - Over the olecranon process

System Classification
This question is a Musculoskeletal System question which represents approximately 27% of all exam items.

Content Outline Classification
This question is a Physical Therapy Examination question which represents approximately 24% of all exam items.

Level Classification
This question is a Level 1 question since the question requires students to possess basic foundational academic knowledge. Remediation of Level 1 questions occurs through academic review of entry-level content using textbooks, review books, Basecamp, and flash cards.

Academic Focus Area
Looking to review related academic content? Check out pages 95-96 in PTEXAM: The Complete Study Guide.

Thanks for joining us on the Scorebuilders Q and A podcast! See you next week!