Therapeutic Exercise

Manual Muscle Testing (MMT)

A method used to evaluate muscle strength by testing the degree of force a muscle can exert against resistance.

Active Range of Motion (AROM)

The degree of movement that a patient can achieve independently.

Full Range of Motion (ROM)

The complete movement potential of a joint, usually measured in degrees.

Gravity Eliminated Position

A position where the effects of gravity are removed, allowing for easier movement of a joint.

End Feel

The quality of movement felt when pressure is applied passively to a joint at the end of its available ROM.

Normal End Feel

The expected sensation when reaching the end of a joint's ROM, including hard (bone to bone), soft (soft tissue approximation), and firm (tissue stretch).

Hard End Feel

A type of normal end feel characterized by a 'hard' stop when articulating bones meet.

Soft End Feel

A type of normal end feel characterized by a yielding approximation of soft tissues.

Firm End Feel

A type of normal end feel characterized by a springy sensation indicating tissue stretch.

Abnormal End Feel

A sensation felt at the end ROM that deviates from the expected normal sensations, often indicating pathology.

Isotonic Contraction

Muscle contraction resulting in movement and changing muscle length (includes concentric and eccentric).

Isometric Contraction

Muscle contraction that produces tension without changing muscle length or producing joint movement.

Isokinetic Exercise

Active resistance exercise where the speed of contraction is controlled by a machine and resistance varies throughout the motion.

Active Assistive Range of Motion (AAROM)

Involves the use of an external force to assist the patient in moving a body part through its available range of motion.

Passive Range of Motion (PROM)

Movement performed on a patient's body part without any effort from the patient.

Closed Chain Exercise

Exercises where the distal end of a limb is fixed, allowing multiple joints to move against load.

Open Chain Exercise

Exercises where the distal end of a limb is free to move, usually targeting single joints.

Eccentric Contraction

Lengthening of a muscle under tension, typically occurring during the lowering phase of an exercise.

Concentric Contraction

Shortening of a muscle under tension, typically occurring during the lifting phase of an exercise.

Muscle Setting

Isometric exercise without external resistance focusing on maintaining muscle tone.

Therapeutic Exercise (Therex)

Physical activity specifically designed to improve or restore physical function.

Assessment of Muscle Strength

An evaluation process focusing on the ability of muscles to generate force against resistance.

Patient Precautions in Exercise

Considerations to ensure patient safety during physical activity, such as monitoring for pain or abnormal responses.

Functional Exercise

Physical activities that enhance the individual’s ability to perform daily tasks.

Home Exercise Program (HEP)

A tailored exercise plan designed for patients to perform independently at home.

Quadriplegia

Partial or complete paralysis of all four limbs, often requiring adaptive methods for exercise.

Muscle Weakness Post-Immobilization

A reduction in muscle strength and function following a period of limited movement.

Muscle Activation Testing

Evaluating the ability of a muscle to contract or show signs of activation during testing.

ROM Assessment Guidelines

Criteria for assessing a joint’s range of motion effectively, including stabilization techniques.

Resistance Application Techniques

Methods for delivering resistance during muscle testing or exercise to ensure patient safety and effectiveness.