What is Range of Motion?

About Range Of Motion (ROM)

Range of Motion (ROM) refers to the flexibility at a joint, indicating the extent to which a joint can move or be moved. It is a critical measure of joint health and mobility, often assessed in physical therapy, sports medicine, and fitness training. ROM is typically measured in degrees using a device called a goniometer.

Types of Range of Motion

• Active Range of Motion (AROM): The degree of movement a person can achieve using their own muscle strength and effort without assistance.
• Passive Range of Motion (PROM): The degree of movement a joint can achieve when an external force, such as a therapist or trainer, moves the joint without the individual's muscle effort.

Importance of Range of Motion

• Joint Health: Maintaining a full ROM helps keep joints healthy and functional, reducing the risk of stiffness and degeneration.
• Injury Prevention: Adequate ROM can prevent injuries by allowing joints to move freely and efficiently during physical activities.
• Performance Enhancement: Improved ROM contributes to better performance in sports and daily activities by enabling more efficient and effective movements.
• Pain Management: Restoring and maintaining ROM can help alleviate pain associated with joint stiffness and immobility.

Measuring Range of Motion

• Goniometer: A goniometer is a tool used to measure the angle of a joint's movement in degrees. It consists of two arms and a protractor-like scale.
  • Placement: The center of the goniometer is aligned with the joint axis, and the arms are positioned along the bones of the joint.
  • Reading: The angle formed by the arms of the goniometer indicates the ROM in degrees.
• Inclinometer: Another device used to measure ROM, particularly for the spine, providing precise angular measurements.

Improving Range of Motion

• Stretching Exercises: Regular stretching exercises help increase flexibility and maintain or improve ROM in various joints.
• Strength Training: Building muscle strength around a joint can support and enhance its range of motion.
• Mobility Drills: Specific exercises designed to improve joint mobility and flexibility, such as dynamic stretches and controlled articular rotations (CARs).
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide targeted interventions and exercises to restore and enhance ROM in injured or stiff joints.

Common Issues Affecting Range of Motion

• Injury: Joint injuries, such as sprains or fractures, can limit ROM due to pain, swelling, and structural damage.
• Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis cause joint inflammation and degeneration, reducing ROM.
• Muscle Tightness: Tight or imbalanced muscles can restrict joint movement and limit flexibility.
• Scar Tissue: Scar tissue from surgeries or injuries can impede joint mobility and reduce ROM.