Physical Therapist how-to

How to Measure Range of Motion

Accurate measurements track progress.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Accurate measurements track progress. In short: position; align; align, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Position the patient correctly.

  2. Align the goniometer axis with the joint.

  3. Align the arms with body segments.

  4. Move the joint through its range.

  5. Read the angle.

  6. Record and compare to normal.

Safety reminders for physical therapists

  • Use proper body mechanics
  • Guard patients during gait training
  • Follow infection control
  • Watch for vital sign changes during exercise

DPT · Range of motion · Gait · Manual therapy · Therapeutic exercise · Goniometer: see the full physical therapist glossary.

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