![]() In the event of overstretched or torn ligaments, this may increase joint movement and subsequently increase ROM. Oftentimes when a ligament is sprained or torn, this compromises the stability of the joint because ligaments act as reinforcement structures. Sustaining a musculoskeletal injury can result in decreased or even increased range of motion depending on the type of injury. Osteoarthritis can cause limited range of motion due to both painful movement and structural changes (such as osteophytes) that create bony blocks within a joint's typical plane of movement. Osteoarthritis is characterized by age related changes of joint surfaces and decreased lubrication causing the bones of a joint to rub against each other and break down, often forming other bony structures called osteophytes. These changes can result in an inability to move parts of the body in various directions. Neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, cerebral vascular accidents (commonly called a stroke), brain injuries, and multiple sclerosis can alter muscle tone, strength, and spasticity. Scoliosis, a condition in which the spine curves away from midline, alters the other joint positions since the spine and pelvis are the foundation of the body. While there is a general way that our bodies are structured from an anatomical perspective, genetics and medical conditions create variations. Just something to keep in mind during everyday exercise and the rehab process. Variations in ROM due to body structure and composition are not necessarily a bad thing at all. Bone structure variations impact the ability of a joint to roll, glide, and slide as it was designed to, which can also impact available range. A joint may not be able to move through as much range if there is increased muscle bulk or adipose tissue causing tissue approximation (that’s when the joint can’t move any more because the surrounding tissue stops it). Someone with laxity in their ligaments might have increased ROM or joint hypermobility. ![]() However, these differences can impact available ROM for each person. ![]() Humans are unique individuals, so each of us has a different body structure and composition - which is totally expected and also pretty cool. A physical therapist is trained to perform ROM testing to determine if tight muscles are limiting your range in any given area.īody structure and composition refers to the components of your body such as bones, muscles, ligaments, adipose tissue, among others. Muscles work within a carefully balanced system between being strong and flexible. Say your latissimus dorsi muscles (back muscles commonly referred to as “the lats”) are too tight, this can limit how much you can raise your arms in front of you into shoulder flexion. Muscle tightness doesn’t just impact the neck and back, but every part of the body. On the contrary, when a muscle is flexible, it is able to achieve the lengths needed for maximal range of motion. When a muscle is tight and stiff, it is typically in a shortened position and limits mobility. Have you ever noticed your neck feels stiff and doesn’t move as much when you look over one side or the other? One common cause of neck stiffness is decreased muscle flexibility! How tight or flexible a muscle is directly impacts how much a given joint is able to move. When one joint becomes stiff and loses mobility, this makes it more difficult to not only do the things you love, but to perform regular activities with ease and comfort. Simply being able to go for a walk or climbing stairs requires you to have adequate ROM at your ankles, knees, and hips. ![]() ![]() In order to perform your day to day activities with ease, your joints need to be free to move without restriction. With OneStep you can measure ROM on your own using only your smartphone, by performing a few quick exercises. ROM limitations can also be observed by performing functional tasks such as climbing stairs, squatting, raising your arms to reach overhead, and reaching behind your back. This tool is used to measure the exact degree of joint mobility, allowing therapists to determine if there is a loss of movement. Physical therapists typically measure ROM with a tool we call a goniometer. Image demonstrating elbow flexion and extension. ![]()
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