The purpose of this study was to determine the reliability of distance measurements from the medial border of the scapula to the spinous process of the thoracic vertebrae when obtained using tape and photography measurements. The study included 20 healthy subjects (10 males, 10 females); for a total of 40 scapula measurements. The distance measurements made using tape or photography methods were conducted with the subject in a standing position. Repeated tape and photography measurements were conducted in two sessions on different days by two examiners to assess the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability of the two methods. The reliability of scapular distance measured using tape and photography methods was tested using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC(3,1)) and the standard error of measurement (SEM). The inter-rater reliability of the tape measurement method was excellent (ICC=.77) and the intra-rater reliability was fair to good (ICC=.74). The inter-rater and intra-rater reliabilities of the photography measurement method were excellent (ICC=.76 and .76 respectively). Our results suggest that photography measurement is an objective and qualitative measurement tool for scapular distance measurements.

Tape measurement for evaluating edema is frequently used by clinicians. The primary purpose of this study is to determine the intertester and intratester reliability of tape measurement carried out by two physical therapists on lower extremities. The intertester and intratester reliability of six anatomical landmarks measurements were determined in six healthy subjects. The measurements were taken in five sessions by each tester. The intraclass correlation coefficients (2,1) were between .87 and .99 for intertester reliability. Intratester reliability was .93 and .99 for A tester and .82 and .99 for B tester. The average range of variation was .13 to .54 in six landmarks. The reliability of six volume measurements was very high. These results support the use tape measurement as a reliable tool for measuring limb girth.