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Muscle Atrophy in Legs - Can it Cause Difficulty Walking and Standing?
Bones, Joints & Muscles | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (22)Comment receiving replies
Sue,
Thank you for responding. Actually my question was, which is the most accurate to measure atrophy of the leg, goniometer or tape measure. V.A. does not use a tape measure, they assess atrophy via measurements and function of flexion/extension , with a goniometer.
Thank you again
Replies to "Sue, Thank you for responding. Actually my question was, which is the most accurate to measure..."
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Atrophy is an assessment of loss of mass, loss of function and loss of strength. Full analysis would require all three tests.
In the past, I have had extensive PT for my legs weeks or months. The tape measure is of limited use over time, because it cannot account for weight gain/loss or fluid retention - it does not measure muscle mass or strength.
Next time they measure with the goniometer, ask what the "metric" they are reporting. If you are concerned about others, maybe ask for a full assessment by a PT.