Movement of Joints: Skills (DP IB Biology): Revision Note

Movement of Joints

• The range of motion of joints are capable of moving in different directions, also called dimensions

• An example of a joint which can move in a number of dimensions is the hip joint  

• The range of motion of a joint can be measured using:

  • A simple tool called a goniometer which measures the distance and direction that the joint can move in degrees (^o)

  • Computer analysis which can be used to track and measure the of the movement of various joints; there are even phone Apps which can be used to simulate a goniometer

Using a Goniometer Diagram

The use of a goniometer to measure range of movement in joints