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Passive ankle mobility. Clinical measurement compared with radiography.
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Rigshospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|August 1, 1989
Summary
Goniometric assessment of ankle movement overestimates range of motion compared to radiographic measurements. Radiographic methods are recommended for accurate documentation of tibiotalar joint mobility.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Biomechanics
- Radiology
Background:
- Accurate assessment of joint mobility is crucial in orthopedic and biomechanical studies.
- Tibiotalar joint range of motion is a key indicator of ankle function.
- Current clinical methods for measuring ankle mobility include goniometry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the accuracy of goniometric assessment with radiographic measurements for passive ankle movement.
- To determine the reliability of clinical versus radiographic methods in documenting tibiotalar mobility.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 100 normal ankles.
- Goniometric assessment of passive ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion.
- Radiographic measurement of tibiotalar joint mobility.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed between goniometric and radiographic measurements for both dorsiflexion and plantarflexion.
- Clinical goniometric measurements consistently overestimated the actual range of ankle motion.
- The discrepancy highlights potential inaccuracies in standard clinical assessments.
Conclusions:
- Goniometric assessment of passive ankle movement is less accurate than radiographic measurement.
- Radiographic measurements provide a more reliable and scientifically documented assessment of tibiotalar mobility.
- For precise scientific documentation, radiographic evaluation of ankle joint mobility is advised.