Bones, joints and muscle work together in unison to help the body move. These elements are what is needed to allow the body to walk, run, jump, push and pull. The joint, or articulation, is where two bones come together. The flexion and extension, or bending at the joint, is what is referred to as Range of Motion. A healthy Range of Motion is important for a robust quality of life. The tighter one’s Range Of Motion is during everyday movement, the more difficult it becomes to perform normal daily tasks.
The body is meant to move. Joints are meant to allow the body to get into positions that serve a purpose. Range of Motion or ROM, is influenced by numerous structures: configuration of bone surfaces within the joint, joint capsule, ligaments, tendons, and muscles moving about the joint. Overuse of major muscles and prolonged sitting can attribute to a decrease in joint mobility.
Range of Motion (ROM) exercise refers to activity aimed at improving movement of specific joints.
There are three types of ROM exercises; Passive, Active and Active Assistive.
Passive ROM is when the movement applied to a joint by another person or by a passive motion machine. When passive ROM is applied, the joint is completely relaxed while the outside force moves the body part throughout the obtainable range.
Active ROM is movement of a joint by the person performing the exercise. Examples would include a person performing a static hold stretch for any period of time or a runner preparing for a race by performing “butt-kicks” and “high-knee” stretches before the event.
Active Assist ROM is when a joint is receiving partial assistance from an outside force. This range of motion may result from the motion applied by the exerciser or by the person assisting the individual. It also may be a half-and-half effort on the joint from each source. A great example of this is when exercisers practice Partner Yoga or when gymnasts perform face to face splits, join hands and take turns laying back while holding that leg stretch.
Of course, injury, surgery, or immobilization of a joint may affect the normal joint range of motion. Motion may also be limited because of a problem within the joint, pain, swelling in the area of the joint, or stiffness of the muscles. With guidance from your medical provider, you can first care for the joint. Then when cleared, seeking help from a well-qualified fitness professional, you can improve joint health and ROM with corrective exercise.
Our Exercise Specialist has a lengthy background in functional fitness and mobility. Call us today to set up a consultation and start affordable training today.