ROM (Range of Motion)

ROM (range of motion) is a measurement of the distance and direction – expressed in degrees – that a joint in the body can move to its full potential. Each specific joint has its own normal range of motion, which is measured using a device called a goniometer – an instrument that measures the angles from the axis of the joint.

Limited Range of Motion

When a joint has a decreased ability to move, this is a condition referred to as limited range of motion. It can be caused by a mechanical dysfunction within the joint, or it can be brought about by a number of diseases, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other forms of arthritis. Arthritis can also cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in addition to impairing the function of a joint and limiting its range of motion.

Treatment

With the assistance of a physical therapist, there are a number of exercises that can help improve joint function. These exercises gently increase range of motion in the affected joint, and also seek to decrease the pain and other symptoms. These exercises are categorized in the following ways:

• Active – The patient performs these exercises without any assistance from the physical therapist.
• Active assistive – The patient receives some help from the physical therapist while performing the exercises.
• Passive – The patient does not exert any effort; rather, the physical therapist or equipment moves the patient through the range of motion.

In the Spine

Your spine actually has joints at each vertebral level. Just like any other joint in your body, these joints – called facet joints – can experience a decrease in range of motion due to spinal arthritis, as well as pain, stiffness, weakness, and more.