Flexibility
| Scratch-Reach Test | The back-scratch test provides an indication of the participant's upper body and shoulder flexibility. It is associated with lifestyle activities such as getting dressed, reaching for objects and putting on a car seat belt. | The risk zone is -10.2 cm for men and -5.1 cm for women using the correct form |
| Soleus Stretch Test | The soleus stretch test provides an indication of the participant's flexibility in the ankle. It also can be used as an exercise (stretch) to increase flexibility into dorsiflexion. Many seniors have reduced dorsiflexion while walking which can lead to trips and falls. If the cause is reduced range of motion rather than strength, the soleus should be a focus for lengthening. | No normative values…is self-limited |
About Scratch Reach Test
Measure the distance between the client’s two middle fingers. If there is a space between their fingers the distance is negative. If their fingers overlap the distance is positive.
Normative Values: Scratch-Reach Test
Interpretation:
The risk zone is -10.2 cm for men and -5.1 cm for women using the correct form
| Normal range of scratch test scores | ||
|---|---|---|
| Age | ||
| 60-64 | -7.6 - 3.8 | -16.5 - 0.0 |
| 65-69 | -8.9 - 3.8 | -19.1 - -2.5 |
| 70-74 | -10.2 - 2.5 | -20.3 - -2.5 |
| 75-79 | -12.7 - 1.3 | -22.9 - -5.1 |
| 80-84 | -12.7 - 0.0 | -22.9 - -5.1 |
| 85-90 | -14.0 - -2.5 | -24.1 - -7.6 |
| 90-95 | -20.3 - -2.5 | -26.7 - -10.2 |
This value is what your client would be expected to do, based on their age. If they are unable to achieve this distance, then shoulder and upper back flexibility may be an issue for them and something you might want to work into their exercise routine.
