Does range of motion measurement and reference values differ?: a multi-centered study

Abstract

This study is aimed to estimate and measure reference values in the normal range of motion of extremity joints in females and to provide a database for the assessment of impairments related to the mobility of the joints. This observational cross-sectional study was conducted at seven major educational institutes areas of Rawalpindi and Islamabad in Pakistan from January to June 2020 with a sample size of 600 healthy females aged 15 to 45 years and divided into three groups through non-probability sampling technique. In study Instruments, an electronic Goniometer was used for the measurement of the range of motions for different joints and then those ranges were recorded. The questionnaire had two sections demographic characteristics and ROM for both upper and lower limbs. Data was analyzed using SPSS V21. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.In the result,Out of 600 participants,there was a statistically significant difference of (p < 0.001) in both upper and lower extremities motion between all the three groups for the measurements and noticeably no significant difference (p > 0.005) between group 1, 2 comparisons for the knee joint extension.To conclude, In most joints, the range of motion increases with age. The transition from group 1 to group 2 was aided by increased hormone participation in growth, an active lifestyle, and generally good health. Because of degenerative changes and joint stiffness, group 3’s range of motion deteriorated, leading to a sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity. Standardized biomechanical measurements can help health practitioners, such as physiotherapists, choose appropriate therapy interventions to assess musculoskeletal disorders. To resolve the inconsistencies in the reliability and validity of goniometry values, more research is required.