Validation of the Spin-T Goniometer, a Cervical Range of Motion Device

Abstract 

Objective

To test the validity of the Spin-T goniometer for the assessment of cervical range of movement.

Methods

A linear regression analysis for paired neck movements using first a foam head model and then human subjects was performed to quantify the differences between the measurements obtained from the MotionStar, a movement-tracking device, and the Spin-T. A within-subject repeated measures design using simultaneous data acquisition was completed.

Results

The coefficient of determination (R²) for all planes of cervical range of motion for both model and human data sets was higher than 0.99. The regression equations for the model data showed no significant (P > .05) intercept for flexion-extension and lateral rotation. Human data showed statistically significant intercept for flexion-extension (mean, −0.52°) and lateral flexion (mean, 0.81°) at P < .05.

Conclusion

This study quantifies the difference between the MotionStar and the Spin-T goniometer and documents the systematic error between the measures. Where the error reached statistical significance, the magnitude of the error was very small (<1.5°). The results of this study suggest that the Spin-T goniometer may be used as a valid measuring instrument for cervical range of movement.