What is the primary function of a goniometer?

The primary function of a goniometer is to measure joint angles in a single plane. This tool is specifically designed to assess the range of motion of joints in the body, allowing healthcare professionals to evaluate the flexibility and mobility of patients. By measuring the angles formed at joints when they move, a goniometer helps in diagnosing joint conditions, planning rehabilitation exercises, and tracking recovery progress following an injury or surgery.

Understanding the specific use of a goniometer is essential in various clinical settings, especially in physical therapy and orthopedics, where joint function is a key focus of treatment and assessment. This precision in measuring angles is critical for creating appropriate treatment plans and monitoring patient outcomes over time.

The other options pertain to different medical measurements: intraocular pressure, blood pressure, and heart rate, which are assessed using specific instruments suited for those purposes, such as tonometers, sphygmomanometers, and heart rate monitors, respectively.