Active Range of Motion Exercises

• Dr. Khushnoor Alam

Active Range of Motion Exercises

WHAT YOU NEED to KNOW:

What is the dynamic range of motion?

Exercises that increase range of motion are great to improve joint function. The range of motion refers to the distance you can move your joints in various directions. These exercises allow you to move every joint in its full range of motion. So moving can improve your flexibility, balance, strength, and pain relief.

What should I know about active range motion exercises?

• Learn the exercises from your healthcare provider. Try the exercises out with your healthcare provider first. Your healthcare provider may direct you to exercise every day or as often as necessary.

• Perform the exercises in the same order each time. Move from head to foot to remember the sequence of moves. Begin with neck stretches. Next, move to your feet and work the other body parts. Each exercise should be done on one side. Then, move to the opposite side.

• Use slow, gentle, and smooth movements.

• Do not stop if you feel pain. At first, it is normal to feel discomfort. The discomfort will decrease over time if you exercise regularly.

Neck exercises

Start position: You can sit or stand. It would help if you faced forward. Your shoulders should be straight. Return your chin to its original position. Your head should be tilted back so that you can see the ceiling. Restore your head to its original position.

Turn your head sideways. Move your head sideways. Bring your ear towards your shoulder. Keep your shoulder straight. Your shoulder should remain still. Keep your head still.

Head turns to Look over your shoulder with your head. Try to bring your chin to your shoulder by tilting your head. Don't raise your shoulder above your chin. Reorient your face.

CareNotes

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Active Range of Motion Exercises

• Care Notes

• Overview

• Ambulatory Care

• En Espanol

Exercises for the shoulder and elbow

Start position: Sit or stand. Your arm should be straight at your side. Keep your palms facing in towards your body. If you're sitting, it is better to use a chair with no arms.

Shoulder movement up and down: Lift your arm, then raise it over your head. Your inner arm should touch your ear. Your arm should be brought back to your side. Retract your arm as far behind you as possible. Restore your arm to its original position.

Arm and wrist exercises

Starting position: Sit down. Place your elbow on the table or your lap and place your forearm flat on the surface. Your wrist should be able to hang loosely from the side.

Bend your wrist: Turn your hand toward the ceiling, so your fingers are facing toward the ceiling. Next, bend your hand so that your fingers face the ceiling.

Rotate your wrist:

1. Turn your hand sideways.

2. Roll your hand in circles in one direction.

3. Roll your hand in the opposite direction.

Keep your palm up and your palm down. You can keep your elbow bent against your side. Face your palm down. Your palm should face up towards the ceiling. Next, turn your palm so that it faces downward.

When do I need to contact my healthcare provider?

• When you perform active range of motion exercises, you feel pain.

• Questions or concerns regarding your health, care, or exercise program.

Care Agreement

You have the right and obligation to plan your healthcare. Find out about your condition and the treatment options. Talk to your healthcare providers about the treatment options available to you. You have the right not to accept treatment. This information is intended to be an educational tool only. This information is not meant to be used as medical advice regarding individual conditions or treatments. To determine if a medical regimen is safe and effective, consult your pharmacist or doctor before starting.