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Limited range of motion - Overview

Definition of Limited range of motion:

Limited range of motion is a reduction in the normal distance and direction through which a joint can move.

Considerations:

Range of motion is the distance and direction of movement of a joint. Limited range of motion is a term meaning that a specific joint or body part cannot move through its normal range of motion.

Motion may be limited by a mechanical problem within the joint, by swelling of tissue around the joint, by stiffness of the muscles, or by pain.

Diseases that prevent a joint from fully extending may, over time, produce contracture deformities, causing permanent inability to extend the joint beyond a certain fixed position.

Common Causes:

  • Reviewed last on: 8/12/2008
  • Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Childs JD, Irrgang JJ. Rehabilitation. In: DeLee JC, Drez D Jr, Miller MD, eds. DeLee and Drez's Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2003:chap 8.

Drezner JA, Harmon KG, O'Kane JW. Sports medicine. In: Rakel P, Bope ET, eds. Conn's Current Therapy 2007. 60th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 41.

Moeller JL, Hutchinson MR. Orthopedics. In: Rakel P, Bope ET, eds. Conn's Current Therapy 2007. 60th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 42.

Gravel J, Comeau D, Gordon A. Rheumatology and musculoskeletal problems. In: Rakel P, Bope ET, eds. Conn's Current Therapy 2007. 60th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2008:chap 43.

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