Segmometer for Knee Height Measurement, Ulna / Forearm Length, Demi Span

A segmometer is a modified tape measure with tips used for body measurements (anthropometry) for lengths of bones. 

Use a segmometer for knee height measurement, demi-span, and ulna / forearm length measurement. These measurements can be used to estimate height / stature of patients unable to stand for a traditional height measurement, including bedridden patients, elderly persons, people in wheelchairs, and patients with other medical conditions.

A segmometer is also used in body fat measurement to identify midpoint of upper arm.

To know how to make these measurements with the segmometer, visit our article How to Measure Height of Bedridden Adults

Rigid segmometer

A rigid segmometer is sometimes called a knee height caliper, Ross knee height caliper, and Shorr knee height caliper. It consistes of a long steel or metal rod with a sliding arms.

Flexible segmometer

A flexible segmometer is a modified tape measure with tips.  The advantage of a flexible segmometer is that is very compact and thus easier to transport.  It may also be more comfortable to handle for shorter measurements. 

Knee Height Caliper

This is very similar to a rigid segmometer, though it's marketed for just measuring knee height. The Shorr knee height caliper, for example, has a range of 80cm, much less than the 300cm range of a flexible segmometer. 

Anthropometric Tape Measure

An anthropometric tape measure, such as the Lufkin W606PM, is ideal for measuring circumference, such as wrist or waist.   Typically is has a narrow (6mm) flexible steel blade and measures in metric units.  Because of the flexible blade, it is not ideal for measuring length of bones, as muscle and tissue may affect the reading.  If a segmometer is not available, this is an acceptable option, though. In contrast a segmometer will not be affected by muscle and tissue.