Test Positioning

It is important to use proper bony landmarks and positioning for ROM (range of motion) for consistency. There is a certain way to palpate and measure each joint which provides accuracy for the client even if they visit another practitioner. Palpating bony landmarks will also allow you to orient yourself and move the anatomical part in the correct direction. Palpation sometimes allows you to detect muscle damage or other problems that could hinder therapy or harm the client while performing therapy. When looking at MMT (manual muscle testing) it is vital to set the client in the right "testing position" so that you will avoid contraindications or harm them. This includes knowing when to make them test against gravity or having gravity eliminated. Gravity elimination comes into play when a client is too weak, disabled, or has other issues going on with the body part being tested. The testing position also allows you to make more cross bridges of the muscle which allow for optimal strength. When a practicing OT eliminates gravity, the tested anatomy will move parallel to the ground. This component of MMT is vital to know for the patient's safety.