Week 5: Joint Range of Motion

Why is joint range of motion (ROM) measured?

To gauge a client's ability to use joints for functional performance.

Range of motion (ROM) in any joint depends on the ___ of the joint and ___ of its supporting structures (ligaments, tendons, capsules, muscles).

structure ; elasticity

Limitations of ROM occur with injury or disease to the ___ itself or to surrounding ___ tissue structures (ex. trauma or immobilizaton)

joint

Normal Range of Motion (NROM)

amount of motion through which a joint passes as it moves within a specific plane

What factors affect the normal range of motion (NROM) in joints?

Age, sex, body type, occupation, and other factors.

What is the functional range of motion (FROM)?

The amount of range necessary to perform daily activities without adaptive equipment and/or excessive compensatory body movements

Functional ROM is used as a guideline for therapists to help set ___ with the client

goals

What is the purpose of measuring joint ROM?

To assess joint integrity, identify limitations, set ROM goals, and track changes in therapy.

What does active range of motion (AROM) indicate?

The amount of motion a joint passes under voluntary control, reflecting joint range, muscle strength, and coordination.

What is passive range of motion (PROM)?

The motion a joint passes when moved by an external force, such as a therapist

What does it suggest if AROM is limited but PROM is full?

It suggests weakness, motor control deficits, or pain inhibition rather than joint restriction.

What does it suggest when both AROM and PROM are similarly limited?

Joint restriction, contracture, capsular tightness, or structural limitation.

What are the important steps in measuring joint ROM?

Properly position the client, stabilize the joint, palpate landmarks, align the goniometer, direct/move body part and record measurements.

What is the normal range of shoulder flexion?

0 - 170 degrees.

What is the functional range of shoulder flexion?

0 - 120 degrees.

What is the normal range of shoulder extension?

0 - 60 degrees.

What is the normal range of shoulder abduction?

0 - 170 degrees.

What is the normal range of shoulder internal rotation?

0 - 70 degrees.

What is the normal range of shoulder external rotation?

0 - 90 degrees.

What is the normal range of shoulder horizontal adduction?

What is the normal range of shoulder horizontal abduction?

What is the normal range of elbow flexion?

0 - 140 degrees.

What is the functional range of elbow flexion?

15 - 120 degrees.

What is the normal range of wrist flexion?

0 - 80 degrees.

What is the functional range of wrist flexion?

0 - 45 degrees.

What does 'WFL' stand for in ROM documentation?

'Within Functional Limits'.

What does 'WNL' stand for in ROM documentation?

'Within Normal Limits'.

What is the significance of measuring both AROM and PROM?

Both are needed for comprehensive assessments when joint ROM is limited.

What is the normal range of wrist ulnar deviation?

0 - 30 degrees.

What is the normal range of wrist radial deviation?

0 - 20 degrees.

What should be done before measuring ROM?

Explain the procedure fully and make the client comfortable.

What is the purpose of stabilizing the proximal joint segment during ROM measurement?

To ensure accurate measurement and prevent compensatory movements.

What is the role of the goniometer in measuring joint ROM?

To accurately measure the angle of joint movement.

What does 'end feel' refer to in ROM assessment?

The sensation experienced at the end of the range of motion.

What is the normal range of forearm pronation?

0 - 90 degrees.

What is the normal range of forearm supination?

0 - 90 degrees.