ABSTRACT
Physical measurements on the human body are important in both diagnosis and research. Indeed, the basic physical examination of the body itself involves the observation and, in some cases, quantitative measurement of mechanical physiologic variables. As more and more technology is applied to medical measurements, many of these variables can be studied in a quantitative fashion employing specific instrumentation systems. Not only can the basic variables of physical diagnosis be studied in this way, but important additional variables can be evaluated quantitatively on an acute or chronic basis. The chapter presents a comprehensive review of the many different types of physical measurements that can be made on the human body. Stereo-photogrammetry in principle can provide a computer with a complete shape description of the body and/or its parts. Programs to solve for many quantities can be written and graphic displays of the body from all positions and for cross sections are possible.
