Client Assessment Part 3

C.H.A.R.T.S.

"A" is for Asymmetries

After taking an extensive history and finding out what your client's chief complaint is, you will want to begin gathering objective measures as a baseline status.  The first observation should be your client's posture. 

From the back, look for the following:

1. Foot position: are the toes pointing in or out, or is the foot flat?

2. Check out muscle mass: Is one calf bulkier than the other?

3. Position on the knees: Are they pointed in towards eachother or is it bowlegged?

4. Check for scoliosis: Does the spine have an 'S' curve?

5.  What about shoulder position: Is one shoulder elevated?

From a lateral view:

1.  Is the knee flexed or hyperextended?

2.  Is there an arch in the lower back?

3.  Is there a rounded upper back, rounded shoulders or a forward head posture?

With this section, you rely heavily on your observation skills and vision to determine asymmetries.  Noting these asymmetries will help a great deal in customizing an exercise plan with goals for your client. Setting up a plumb line to assist in your facility may help. 

Next we will discuss Range of Motion ('R' in C.H.A.R.T.S.)