A new goniometer

Abstract

A simple new goniometer has been developed for measurement of the mobility of the cervical spine. It consists of a headgear with three rigid scales calibrated in degrees, mounted on a skull cap with straps around the chin, and it measures flexion/extension, lateral flexion and horizontal rotation. Its construction and use are described. Three observers each tested the same 10 subjects to determine inter-observer error. Two observers then each tested 10 different subjects on two occasions at intervals of 10 to 30 minutes to test intra-observer error. Statistical analysis of the inter-observer error data by analysis of variance, and the intra-observer error data by calculation of means and standard errors of the differences between the means, showed that acceptably reproducible results could be obtained with this new goniometer, and it is also shown that an experienced observer can obtain more consistently reproducible results. Reference is made to the successful use of this technique in a comparative study (published elsewhere) of two drugs in degenerative joint disease of the cervical spine.