What is Range of Motion?
Your range of motion (ROM) is the distance a joint can move around a body part and the direction in which it can move. There are established ranges for what providers consider to be normal ROM in the body. There are many different things that can cause a deficit or limit your range of motion in your joints. Physical therapy can help to improve and maintain flexibility in those joints.
What Causes ROM Deficits?
Certain medical conditions can be associated with ROM deficits, including:
- Ankylosing spondylitis – arthritis of the spine
- Osteoarthritis – wear and tear of the joints due to older age
- Rheumatoid arthritis – autoimmune form of arthritis caused by your immune system attacking your joints
- Inflammation of soft tissue surrounding the joint
- Muscle stiffness
- Pain
- Joint dislocation
- Surgery
Treatment for ROM Deficits
At your appointment, your physical therapist will perform a physical examination of the affected joint and take a brief history of the problem. If necessary, they may schedule an X-ray or other imaging to help with determining your course of treatment.
During your appointments, your physical therapist will help you to perform various range of motion exercises that are designed to help the specific joint allow movement to promote healing and protect from further injury. It is normal to experience some discomfort but should never cause unnecessary pain. Repeating these exercises, as well as at-home exercises, will help you to increase your range of motion and have you back to your daily activities in no time.
If you are experiencing limited range of motion, schedule online with one of our physical therapists or call us at 515.875.9706.