FAQ

The Mobil-Aider is a “measurement device.” It measures millimeters of linear translation of a joint. In other words, it measurements the arthrokinematics. It can be used to quantify joint laxity via standard orthopedic tests like the Lachman or be used to quantify joint mobilization techniques, grades of joint mobilizations.

Arthrokinematics include the gliding/sliding of concave and convex joint surfaces. These motions involve millimeters of motion and can be very challenging for a clinician to assess subjectively. Quantifying the magnitude of motion allows for the documentation of joint limitations (compared to other side), as well as the recording of serial measurements to track progress during treatment.

First, the device provides visual feedback of the joint mobility. This is very important for the novice clinician to rapidly develop skill acquisition. Organizations such as the American Heart Association have published information about the importance of real-time visual feedback in the learning of a psychomotor skill.

Consistency in the performance of joint mobilizations has been found to be very poor between clinicians. Quantified values could improve the consistency/repeatability of these measures within and between clinicians.

Yes, depending on your profession and/or setting the following 2 codes may be used:

97750 = physical performance tests and measurements; requires a minimum of 8-minutes. Both the involved and uninvolved joints should be assessed and the values should be recorded. This code should not be used on a visit with an examination code.

97140 = manual therapy for the performance of joint mobility assessment and intervention.

IF both codes are used together, a -59 modifier should also be used

The learning curve is not steep at all. Almost all of the tests/techniques are performed the same with and without the device.

Videos are available on the website, i.e. in the learning modules as well as in the user guide on the website.

Another resource is the mobile app iOrtho+ Premium (subscription model available for Apple, Android, and desktop versions). Images and videos using the Mobil-Aider are included in the app.

Finally, you can always email your questions to customer service: info@iOrtho.xyz. Zoom calls can be scheduled also.

Mode “A” holds the maximal reading for several seconds before resetting to zero. The “A” mode was designed to assess joint mobility/laxity. It will provide the maximal reading over multiple translations for a given measure.

Mode “B” provides real time readings at any point in time. The “B” mode was designed to provide feedback during joint mobilization techniques, i.e. stay within concern ranges for a given mobilization

Each attachment has a dovetail fitting that snaps into place

The “black” dovetails are slightly shorter and always go on the non-screen side

The “color” dovetails are slightly longer and always go on the screen side

Yes, the device been compared to a “gold” standard, the Zeiss Zoom Microscope, for accuracy and reliability: ICC & Pearson correlation = 0.986; Cronbach alpha reliability = 0.992.

A case report comparing the device measurement to the measurement on a radiograph demonstrated a 2% difference.

Data has been published in multiple peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations. Links to 2 manuscripts are in the “Resources” section
 Gulick, D.T. Proof of Concept: Taking the Guessing Out of Assessing Knee Stability. International Journal of Sports and Exercise Medicine. June 2019
 Gulick, D.T. Reliability and Validity of an Innovative Device for ACL Testing: The Mobil-Aider. Journal of Sport Rehab. 2019.
 Tuzson, A., Tarleton, G. Validating the Mobil-Aider to Measure Joint Accessory Motion in Healthy Adult Shoulders. Journal of Health, Science & Medicine. October 2021

Wiping down the device, attachments, and straps with an anti-microbial wipe will clean the surfaces that come in contact with both the patient and the clinician. Please allow the surfaces to air-dry before using again.

Never submerge the device in any liquid for any reason.

No, there are not. Each person is unique in connective tissue composition and joint mobility. The normative value for comparison of any individual is the contralateral/uninvolved joint.

It takes approximately 1 hour to achieve a full charge. However, in as little as 15-minutes, the device can go from zero charge to being usable.

There is a “red” light that is visible when the device is properly positioned in the charging port.

If the red light is not on, please confirm the device is docked properly, i.e. the charging pins on the underside of the device are making contact with the charging pins of the charger.

The battery life is dependent on the frequency and duration of use. Thus, it is variable but can last for several hours of continuous use.

There is an upgrade kit that includes the 5 additional attachments & the docking station. This will allow you to expand your use of the Mobil-Aider to the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and ankle. It even includes the attachment for a prone Lachman test (knee).

Absolutely. You can purchase any additional attachments you wish in an a la carte format. Therapeutic Articulations is happy to customize your order to meet your specific needs. Just email dawn@mobil-aider.com for pricing.

A calibration block is available as a separate purchase for those individuals who want to check the accuracy in the clinic or when doing research. Pricing of the calibration block can be obtained by emailing dawn@mobil-aider.com