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Goniometer in Physical Therapy: Why It’s Essential for Accurate Patient Care

A goniometer is one of the most important tools in physical therapy. From measuring joint mobility to tracking patient progress over time, goniometers help physical therapists deliver objective, repeatable, and clinically meaningful assessments.

Whether you’re a practicing physical therapist, a student, or a clinic manager, understanding how goniometers are used — and why accuracy matters — is essential to quality care.

What Is a Goniometer?

A goniometer is a medical instrument used to measure the range of motion (ROM) of joints in the body. It consists of two arms and a central protractor marked in degrees, allowing clinicians to quantify joint angles during movement.

In physical therapy, goniometers are commonly used to assess:

• Knee flexion and extension
• Shoulder abduction and rotation
• Elbow, wrist, hip, and ankle mobility
• Post-injury and post-surgical progress

Why Goniometers Matter in Physical Therapy

Accurate measurement is critical in physical therapy — and goniometers provide objective data rather than subjective estimates.

Key benefits include:

• Baseline assessment at initial evaluation
• Progress tracking throughout treatment
• Goal setting for rehabilitation plans
• Documentation for insurance and medical records
• Clinical decision-making based on measurable improvement