Final answer:
Hip internal/medial rotation goniometry measures the range of motion at the hip joint, a multiaxial joint that allows for various movements including medial (internal) rotation, which brings the anterior surface of the thigh toward the midline of the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
The topic of hip internal/medial rotation goniometry falls under the category of Health and pertains to the measurement of range of motion within the joints, specifically related to kinesiology or physical therapy at the collegiate level. Medial (internal) rotation is defined as the movement of the arm at the shoulder joint or the thigh at the hip joint that brings the anterior surface of the limb toward the midline of the body. This is an essential movement in the ball-and-socket joints of the shoulder and hip, which are multiaxial joints. These joints allow for motions such as flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, circumduction, and medial/lateral rotation movements. The hip joint, being a multiaxial ball-and-socket joint between the head of the femur and the acetabulum of the hip bone, is designed to carry the weight of the body and thus its range of motion is more limited than at the shoulder joint for the purpose of providing strength and stability.