What does a score of '4' in Manual Muscle Testing indicate?

A score of '4' in Manual Muscle Testing indicates good muscle function. This scoring system is part of a standard assessment used to evaluate the strength of individual muscles or muscle groups. In this context, a score of '4' suggests that the muscle can achieve movement against some resistance; specifically, the muscle demonstrates the ability to maintain against moderate resistance, but not maximum resistance.

This categorization is important in clinical settings, as it helps in understanding the patient's functional capabilities and potential rehabilitation needs. It allows practitioners to set appropriate goals for therapy and monitor progress effectively. The distinction between different scores is crucial in developing a treatment plan, as it provides insights into the patient's current level of strength and helps identify areas that may require further strengthening or rehabilitation.

In this system, other scores represent varying levels of function: a score of '3' indicates fair muscle function, meaning the muscle can move against gravity but not against resistance; a score of '5' indicates normal muscle function, showing full strength against resistance. The scores are systematically defined, aiding practitioners in consistent assessments across different patients.