The goniometer with pain scale is a measuring instrument primarily used to quickly and accurately measure angles and determine ranges of motion. It is a fundamental tool in various branches of medicine and dentistry. Its design is characterized by a semicircle or circle graduated in 180° or 360° with movable arms and a graduated scale. This goniometer also includes a scale to subjectively assess the pain perceived by the patient during mobilization, providing valuable functional and clinical information.

In medicine, the goniometer is commonly used in physical therapy, orthopedics, and rehabilitation to quantify patients’ joint mobility. It allows healthcare professionals to measure the angle of flexion, extension, abduction, or rotation of joints such as the knee, elbow, shoulder, or wrist. These measurements are essential for establishing diagnoses, planning treatments, and objectively monitoring patient progress. Furthermore, its use helps detect functional limitations and assess the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.

In dentistry, the goniometer is adapted to assess craniofacial angles, mandibular movements, and occlusal relationships. For example, it can be useful in orthodontics and maxillofacial surgery to measure dental inclination, mandibular angle, or mouth opening. It is also useful in postural analysis of the head and neck, especially when addressing temporomandibular disorders or functional disorders of the temporomandibular joint.

The use of goniometers with a pain scale in dentistry focuses on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This tool measures mouth opening and mandibular displacement, fundamental aspects in the diagnosis and treatment of temporomandibular disorders. Integrating pain perception into these measurements improves understanding of the patient’s functional status and guides the appropriate clinical approach.

In summary, the goniometer is a versatile and highly useful instrument in medicine and dentistry. Its application allows for an accurate and objective assessment of joint mobility and anatomical relationships, improving diagnosis and treatment planning. Despite its simplicity, its clinical value is significant for achieving patient-centered, evidence-based care.