Lateral Digital Photography with Computeraided Goniometry versus Standard Goniometry for Recording Finger Joint Angles

Abstract

This study compares the accuracy of computer-aided goniometry with standard goniometry. 109 finger joint angles at the extremes of flexion and extension were measured by a senior hand therapist using standard goniometry. Lateral digital photographs were then taken of the hands and the same angles were read from these by computer. There was good correlation (r ²=0.975) between the results. Computer goniometry averaged 1°(95%Cl=0°–+2°) more than the standard goniometry. We feel that computer goniometry of finger joints is accurate and compares well with standard goniometry.