Range of motion is usually assessed during aphysical therapyevaluation or when a joint has been injured.
It also lists the different conditions that can affect the range of motion of different joints.
How Range of Motion Is Measured
Range of motion is measured using a equipment called agoniometer.
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A goniometer is a simple handheld gear with two arms that measures angles.
A goniometer is suitable for most joints with the exception of the back and spine.
The procedure, known as the Schober test, is used to diagnose and evaluate spinal conditions likeankylosing spondylitis.
There are three types of ROM that are measured as part of physical therapy evaluation.
Someone else, like your physical therapist, manually moves your body while you relax.
A machine may also be used to provide passive ROM.
Your physical therapist may bend and straighten your knee for you, passively moving your leg.
Occasionally, a unit calledcontinuous passive motion (CPM)is used to provide passive ROM.
Passive ROM is usually used during the initial healing phase after surgery or injury.
The assistance that helps move your body can come from you or from another person.
It may also come from a mechanical machine or machine.
An example of AAROM is after shoulderrotator cuff surgery.
This requires no other person or gear to help you move.
Active ROM measures your ability to do this on your own.
Active range of motion is usually less than passive range of motion.
Strengthening exercises are a form of active ROM.
Working towards normal ROM can help ensure a safe and rapid return to optimum functional mobility.
