Top & Best Goniometer Review 2022 – How to Select Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
Goniometer: How to choose the best instrument in 2022
Today we are going to talk about the goniometer, a measurement instrument used in several applications, from mathematical calculations, to analyzing joint mobility.
There are two types of goniometer: a simpler one, called a degree protractor and a precision goniometer (also called Universal), the latter being found in two sizes: conventional or “finger”.
Knowing what are the characteristics and applications of this instrument and its variations will make all the difference at the time of purchase. So, if you are interested in buying a goniometer, keep reading this article.
First, the most important
- The main indication for using a goniometer is to measure the amplitude and mobility of the joints. Measuring the flexion and extension of a joint is called goniometry, a simple and very effective technique.
- The precision goniometer, also called the universal goniometer, is an equipment formed by two arms: one fixed and the other movable, joined by a circular shaped axis.
- The degree protractor, both the 180º semicircle and the 360º circle, is also considered a goniometer, although its use is indicated for situations in which the need for precision is less. The size also varies, with the conventional one measuring 20, 25 or 35 cm, while the “finger” goniometer measures 7 cm.
You may also like:
- Protractor: Which are the best of 2022?
- Régua: What is the best in 2022?
- Trena: What are the best 2022 models?
Best goniometer: ReviewBox recommends
You can find the goniometer for manual or digital use, in different sizes and materials. As there is a wide variety of models, we have selected the best ones for this Ranking. Read the description and check the applications of each one.
- The best universal model
- The ideal goniometer among the smallest
- The ideal goniometer for physiotherapists
Buying Guide
The choice of a measurement tool depends on how you will use it and what precision you need to get the job done. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention, as each instrument is specific to a need.
A versatile instrument that is worth investing in is a goniometer. You can use it in physiotherapy, carpentry, carpentry, construction, mechanics and even visagism. Want to know more about the goniometer? Then keep reading this article.
What is a goniometer?
The goniometer is an instrument used to measure or verify angular measurements. This tool can have a semicircular, circular shape or be presented as two rulers interconnected by an axis.
The goniometer is used to measure and verify angular measurements.
Among the types of goniometers is the degree protractor, a semicircle or graduated circle, with angles of 180 or 360º. This instrument is widely used in measurements of less rigorous angles.
The degree transferor, whether semicircle or circle, is usually part of the school supplies of children and teenagers in math or geometry class, but it is also a work tool for many professionals.
For applications where precision and accuracy in calculations are required, a precision goniometer (also called universal) is used, an instrument formed by a fixed or stationary arm, a mobile arm and a circle.
The goniometer has the following characteristics: a rivet connects the movable arm to the fixed and the central axis. This circle has four grades, from 0 to 90º (or 110º, in some cases).
What are the uses of the goniometer in physical therapy?
The mobility, amplitude and flexibility of body movements are essential to maintain quality of life, good posture and prevent joint, muscle and other orthopedic diseases.
The assessment and measurement of the range of motion that each joint is capable of performing are made by a physiotherapist, using a technique called goniometry, using an instrument called a goniometer.
The data obtained with the goniometer can establish whether or not there is joint dysfunction, quantify the limitations of the joint angles and serve as a comparison between the initial and posterior assessment.
With goniometry, it is possible to establish a diagnosis, set goals with the treatment, evaluate the improvement or functional recovery and make possible changes in the treatment.
To make this measurement, the fixed arm (of the instrument) must be aligned with the segment adjacent to the evaluated joint, in the initial position of degree zero.
The movable arm must be positioned in the region of movement of the joint and the point of intersection of the goniometer must be positioned on the axis of the joint.
For the assessment to be correct and effective it is important to:
- Stabilize the instrument before the assessment.
- Allow full and slow range of motion.
- Know the anatomical points.
- Follow the reference values for each joint.
- Understand bone limits.
- Comparing with the contralateral side of the patient provides important data.
It is possible to make the assessment with the goniometer on the joints of the shoulders, elbows, hips and knees. For each joint studied, there are different assessment techniques: flexion, extension, abduction and adduction.
The goniometer is an effective, durable, reusable (just wash it) and low-cost instrument.
What is a goniometer?
The goniometer is an instrument used to measure or verify angular measurements. This tool can have a semicircular, circular shape or be presented as two rulers interconnected by an axis.
The goniometer is used to measure and verify angular measurements.
Among the types of goniometers is the degree protractor, a semicircle or graduated circle, with angles of 180 or 360º. This instrument is widely used in measurements of less rigorous angles.
The degree transferor, whether semicircle or circle, is usually part of the school supplies of children and teenagers in math or geometry class, but it is also a work tool for many professionals.
For applications where precision and accuracy in calculations are required, a precision goniometer (also called universal) is used, an instrument formed by a fixed or stationary arm, a mobile arm and a circle.
The goniometer has the following characteristics: a rivet connects the movable arm to the fixed and the central axis. This circle has four grades, from 0 to 90º (or 110º, in some cases).
What are the uses of the goniometer in physical therapy?
The mobility, amplitude and flexibility of body movements are essential to maintain quality of life, good posture and prevent joint, muscle and other orthopedic diseases.
The assessment and measurement of the range of motion that each joint is capable of performing are made by a physiotherapist, using a technique called goniometry, using an instrument called a goniometer.
The data obtained with the goniometer can establish whether or not there is joint dysfunction, quantify the limitations of the joint angles and serve as a comparison between the initial and posterior assessment.
With goniometry, it is possible to establish a diagnosis, set goals with the treatment, evaluate the improvement or functional recovery and make possible changes in the treatment.
To make this measurement, the fixed arm (of the instrument) must be aligned with the segment adjacent to the evaluated joint, in the initial position of degree zero.
The movable arm must be positioned in the region of movement of the joint and the point of intersection of the goniometer must be positioned on the axis of the joint.
For the assessment to be correct and effective it is important to:
- Stabilize the instrument before the assessment.
- Allow full and slow range of motion.
- Know the anatomical points.
- Follow the reference values for each joint.
- Understand bone limits.
- Comparing with the contralateral side of the patient provides important data.
It is possible to make the assessment with the goniometer on the joints of the shoulders, elbows, hips and knees. For each joint studied, there are different assessment techniques: flexion, extension, abduction and adduction.
The goniometer is an effective, durable, reusable (just wash it) and low-cost instrument.
Although both instruments have the same function, the goniometer goes beyond visualizing, identifying or marking an angle … this tool has movement.
The mobile arm makes it possible to measure the amplitude of a movement, which is why this tool is widely used by orthopedists and physiotherapists. In addition, the goniometer is a versatile tool, with several applications.
How much does a goniometer cost?
The price of a goniometer varies according to size, material and brand, but, in general, this instrument has a very affordable cost. You can find models in small size between R $ 10 and R $ 25. Larger instruments are a little more expensive and cost between R $ 25 and R $ 35.
Where to buy a goniometer?
You can find the goniometer in stationery stores, in bookstores Cultura and in tool stores dedicated to the use of physiotherapy professionals.
If you prefer, you can buy the goniometer online. We suggest that you take a look at Amazon, there you will find models of excellent quality, good brands and affordable prices.
Purchasing criteria: Factors to compare the different goniometer models
Once you know the features and applications of a goniometer, you must be curious to test it. Thinking about it, we have separated some tips on what characteristics you should analyze at the time of purchase:
- Model
- Material
- Size
- Amplitude
We will explain each of the topics throughout this section.
Model
In addition to the conventional manual goniometer, you can also find the digital goniometer.
With this tool, you can view the angle on the LCD display. In addition to being easier to view and measure, the margin of error is very low (equal to or less than 0.1 degrees) and you can save the markings.
Despite the advantages, this equipment is much more expensive than a conventional goniometer. Therefore, it is worth assessing whether there is a need to make this investment.
Material
You find the goniometer in PVC plastic, acrylic, metal and steel. Most models are plastic or acrylic, as these materials are cheaper, modern and effective in measuring joint mobility.
In addition to being cheaper, you can find a wide variety of plastic or acrylic goniometer models and find them more easily than models in other materials.
Size
You find different sizes of goniometers, the choice is directly related to the use you will make of the instrument. Sizes vary:
- Small : 7 cm
- Medium : 20 or 25 cm
- Large : 35 or 38 cm
Tip: If you are going to buy the product online, check if the goniometer size refers to the open or closed instrument. This is a common confusion, but it can lead you to need to buy another tool.
It is also possible to find larger goniometers, especially to measure the mobility of the leg joints. The goniometer is a foldable instrument, so it is easy to store.
Amplitude
It is important to establish what the applications will be with the goniometer: if a circle with a 360º amplitude is necessary or if a semicircle with 180º is enough.
Bearing this in mind is important, as one of the purchase criteria is the amplitude of the instrument, some models open at 180º, while others open at 360º. This information is available in the product description.
