Active-Assistive Range-of-Motion Exercisesĭuring active assistive range-of-motion exercises, the patient moves the joints and muscles with the help of the therapist. These exercises may be indicated for patients with congenital or degenerative disorders, or major injuries, in order to maintain joint flexibility. Passive range-of-motion exercises are performed as the patient's joint is moved by an assistive device or therapist. There are are three common types of range-of-motion exercises. It is very important that these exercises be increased incrementally, so that pain does not interfere with progress. Range-of-motion exercises involve progressive stretches to achieve mobility within the normal range, or as close to the normal range as Which exercises are appropriate is determined by the part of the body that needs work. Range-of-motion exercises, whether guided by physical therapists or performed by patients themselves, gradually stretch and strengthen muscles, increasing joint flexibility without causing injury. Doing so is counterproductive, however, because it lessens joint mobility.

Their goal is to keep a patient flexible by gently increasing the range of joint and muscle movement, and decreasing pain, swelling and stiffness.įrequently, keeping a joint bent provides relief from pain. Range-of-motion exercises are prescribed to improve joint function after an injury or surgical procedure, or as ongoing treatment for chronic osteoarthritis or other disease.

Range of motion