Abstract
1. The importance of accurate methods of measuring the strength of muscles and the amplitude of joint movements in man, both in clinical fields and as criteria of normal function, is discussed.
2. The advantages and disadvantages of subjective and objective methods are reviewed.
3. The main types of apparatus used for the assessment of muscle strength in both normal and clinical conditions are described. A dynamometer of the strain-gauge type is recommended.
4. Methods of measuring the amplitude of movements in man are also described. The protractor type arthrometer is thought to be the most suitable for routine clinical work, but for research purposes a radiographic method may be preferable.
5. The following factors, which must be considered if the measurements taken are to be of greatest use, are discussed: posture, test procedure, standards for comparison, nomenclature and normal variability.
