Range of Motion of the Upper Limb
Terminology
Types of range of motion:
Passive ROM- movement of a joint from an outside force
Active ROM- movement of a joint created by the individual's own force
Active assisted ROM- movement of a joint in which a portion of the motion requires an outside force
Levels of range of motion:
Within functional limits (WFL)- may not have full ROM, but can still functionally complete daily routines
Within normal limits (WNL)- ROM falls within the range considered normal for that joint movement
Passive ROM- movement of a joint from an outside force
Active ROM- movement of a joint created by the individual's own force
Active assisted ROM- movement of a joint in which a portion of the motion requires an outside force
Levels of range of motion:
Within functional limits (WFL)- may not have full ROM, but can still functionally complete daily routines
Within normal limits (WNL)- ROM falls within the range considered normal for that joint movement
Functional Range of Motion of the Upper Limb
When assessing functional ROM of the UE be sure to include the following...
Shoulder: Elbow: abduction flexion flexion extension internal rotation external rotation Wrist: Fingers: flexion opposition extension supination pronation |
Functional ROM is used to quickly asses the active range of motion of the upper limb.
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Steps:
- Demonstrate each movement as you ask the client to perform it
- Watch for difference in movements between the two sides of the body and/or inability to perform full ROM
- Further assessing impaired movement using PROM can clarify whether it stems from joint issue or muscle weakness
- Further assessing impaired movement using PROM can clarify whether it stems from joint issue or muscle weakness
- If they are unable to fully perform a movement, further assess it using a goniometer
Shoulder Goniometry |
*Norms measured in degrees
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Elbow Goniometry
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*Norms measured in degrees
Forearm Goniometry
*Norms measured in degrees