Range of motion (ROM) exercises

MOVEMENT DISORDERS IN SPINAL CORD INJURY: RANGE OF MOTION (ROM) EXERCISES

Range of motion (ROM) is the term that is used to describe the amount of movement you have at each joint, such as your knee. Every joint in the body has a "normal" range of motion. Joints maintain their normal range of motion by being moved. It is therefore very important to move all your joints every day. Stiff joints can cause pain and permanent deformities and can make it hard for you to do your normal daily activities.

In SCI, you may have difficulty moving your arms and legs, and your joints can easily become stiff and hard to bend. If your knees and hips become stiff, e.g., it will be hard for you to dress yourself and sit in a wheelchair. To prevent joint stiffness and enable you to achieve your highest level of independence, your therapists will teach you range of motion (ROM) exercises. Some patients may need splints to keep the muscles around their joints stretched.

*See also Self Stretching and Passive Stretching (Lower and Upper Extremity)