People can have a limited range of motion in their joints for various reasons. Arthritis, surgery, and injuries are just some situations that can reduce your range of motion. Fortunately, physical therapy can help. Read on to learn how physical therapy helps improve your range of motion.
Physical Therapy for Increased Range of Motion
Also known as rehab, physical therapy is a treatment designed to promote healing and manage pain. One of the benefits is an improvement in your joints’ range of motion. While every patient is different, and every situation is unique, consistent physical therapy can benefit most patients in some way.
Different Types of Range of Motion
There are three different types of range of motion. These are known as active, active-assistive, and passive range of motion. Active range of motion describes how much you can move a joint when you’re using it. Active-assistive range of motion describes the extent of motion a joint can move with assistance after an injury or surgery. Passive range of motion describes the amount of movement in a joint when you aren’t using any muscles. Physical therapy can help improve all three types of range of motion. But, in most cases, your therapists will first focus on the passive range of motion as you heal.
How Physical Therapy Improves Your Range of Motion
When your therapist guides you in range of motion exercises, they help move your joint and surrounding soft tissues to promote healing. These exercises can help prevent complications after an injury or surgery. They also help you regain normal function quicker, so you can return to your regular daily activities. It’s essential to be consistent with your physical therapy to see the most positive results.
Need to improve your range of motion? Start a physical therapy plan with Activity First today.