What Is Range of Motion or Movement?
Range of motion indicates the distance how far you can move or stretch a body part such as a joint or a muscle. It is unique to each of us. Some people can perform complete splits, but others cannot because their joints are not free enough and their muscles are not long enough. These exercises can also be done with the help of gravity, by yourself, in water, or with the help of an external machine.
What Are the Uses of Range of Movement Exercises?
If movement at a joint is limited, consulting a physiotherapist is important. Range of movement exercises can:
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Increase joint movement.
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Increase joint and whole limb function.
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Improve the efficiency of movement.
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Increase independence.
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Decrease pain.
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Maintain and improve joint integrity.
What Does Range of Movement Exercise Session Include?
Following the results of a physiotherapy assessment, a range of motion exercises will be suggested. This evaluation will focus on the range and quality of movement. Strengthening exercises are frequently given in conjunction with or shortly after a range of motion exercises, as increased movement at a joint without increased strength can lead to further damage.
There will be a variety of movement exercise programs available, including:
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The physiotherapist may recommend a range of motion exercises in the water. When it is slightly warm, water can help relax the tissues and increase the extensibility of the tissues, enhancing the range of motion that can be achieved.
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Passive range of motion exercises are those in which another person or body component completes the entire movement without the need for muscle activation.
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Gravity-assisted range of motion exercises involves moving the limb by activating muscles in a position where gravity can help bring the limb's weight to the joint's maximum range of motion.
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Auto-assisted range of motion workouts are when the muscles complete the movement within the range of motion available and then apply additional pressure to obtain a few more degrees.
Who Would Get Advantages From Range of Movement Exercises?
Exercises that improve range of motion might be beneficial to many people. A joint's range of motion may be limited for a variety of reasons. A physiotherapy assessment and range of motion exercises would benefit those with the following conditions and injuries:
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Arthritic joints.
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Resolving ligament sprain.
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An acute injury where swelling is present.
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Post joint replacement.
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A foreign object within the joint.
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Post joint surgery.
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Pre-surgery. It is done prior to joint surgery as post-surgery will decrease the movement; so, the more movement available before the surgery will increase the movement that will be available post-surgery.
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Resolving muscle strain.
What Are the Types of Range of Motion Exercises?
Exercises promoting joint mobility and reducing muscle stiffness are known as a range of motion exercises.
There are three different types of range of motion exercises,
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Passive range of motion (PROM) activities.
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Active assistive range of motion (AAROM) exercises.
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Active range of motion (AROM) exercises.
Passive range of motion is usually performed on a non-moving joint. This exercise will be used by a physical therapist on a patient who is paralyzed or unable to move a certain joint. This type of exercise can help in the prevention of stiffness. The patient does not move during this exercise while the therapist stretches the patient's soft tissues.
Active-assistive range of motion exercises is more advanced, requiring the client to undertake movement around the joint with the help of a physical therapist or a strap or band. These exercises can be uncomfortable, and the muscles can become weak as a result. With these exercises, you should gradually increase your range of motion. Active range of motion exercises are self-contained and performed by the patient alone. The role of the physical therapist may be limited to providing verbal instructions.
What Are the Risks of Range of Motion Exercises?
There is an increased risk of injury when you are not in control of a movement. Someone else cannot determine what your limit is. Therefore they might push a muscle or joint beyond the limit it can move. Stretching a bit further than you think, you can go a long way toward extending your range of motion. However, going too far can result in a muscle tear or joint injury. Remember that no range of motion exercise should cause you any discomfort. Listen to your body and come to a complete rest when you have reached your limit. When using a passive or active range of motion, stretching too far can lead to injuries and damage.
How Is Range of Motion Tested and Measured?
Physical therapists commonly use a goniometer, an instrument that measures the angle at a joint, to determine the range of motion. A goniometer is a two-armed metal or plastic handheld device. Like a protractor, the device has numbers that represent angular distance. Your physical therapist will align your arms along your body and then move your body in particular directions while measuring the range of motion. Goniometers measure angles from 0 to 180 or 360 degrees. It is designed in various shapes and sizes to accommodate the human body's unique types of joints. The process of measuring the range of motion is usually painless. However, measuring the range of motion (ROM) can be uncomfortable after surgery or injury, although the discomfort is usually minimal and only lasts for the measurement duration.
Conclusion:
Reduced range of motion at a joint can generate a variety of issues, ranging from functional limb capabilities to psychological anxieties and barriers resulting from greater pain and decreased function. A physiotherapist can prescribe a range of motion exercises to help you enhance joint function while also eliminating any psychological barriers, leading to increased confidence.
