Spokane Valley Physical Therapist on the Different Types of Range of Motion
When patients experience injuries or undergo surgeries, the range of motion for that body part often becomes limited. Physical therapists can help patients improve their range of motion and flexibility in the injured area. However many patients don't realize that there are three types of range of motion that they need to increase as part of their injury recovery.
Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine explains the three types of range of motion.
1. Passive Range of Motion
Passive range of motion (ROM) is the range of motion a patient can achieve with the assistance of an external force, such as a physical therapist's manual manipulation or a machine. This is the maximum range of motion the joint can achieve.
Physical therapists evaluate passive ROM when a patient cannot move the joint independently or is not permitted to do so as part of their recovery. This test gives physical therapists an understanding of the patient's physical abilities and allows them to curate treatment accordingly.
2. Active-Assisted Range of Motion
Active-assisted ROM is the range of motion a patient can achieve with partial help from an outside force. The patient may be able to move the joint moderately but require a little assistance to achieve the correct movements.
Physical therapists assist patients in a range of motion exercises to slowly increase ROM over time. The goal is for the patient to eventually not require external force to achieve the range of motion their therapist has evaluated.
3. Active Range of Motion
Finally, active ROM is the range of motion a patient can achieve on their own or with little assistance from the therapist, such as verbal cues or instructions. Patients with minor injuries that do not significantly limit their ROM can complete active range of motion exercises to restore their previous mobility.
Contact Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine for ROM Assistance in Spokane Valley, WA
Lighthouse Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, providing physical therapy in Spokane Valley, WA, guides patients through various ROM exercises to improve their flexibility and movement and increase all three types of range of motion.
For a range of motion physical therapy or other PT services, call 509-928-3443 to schedule an appointment or consultation.
