Limited range of motion: What's it, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Limited range of motion

What is limited range of motion?

Limited range of motion is a condition, in which a joint in the body cannot move through its full range of motion. This condition can affect various joints, such as shoulders, elbows, wrist, hips, knees and ankles. Limited range of motion can be caused by various factors, including injuries, inflammation or comorbidities.

Causes of limited range of motion

There are several potential causes of limited range of motion:

• Trauma. Joint injuries, such as fractures, sprains, stretching or straining, may result in limited range of motion, as the body tries to protect the damaged area.
• Arthritis. Different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout, can cause joint inflammation, pain and stiffness, leading to limited mobility.
• Tendonitis. Tendon inflammation, often resulting from repetitive movements or overuse, may limit joint mobility and result in limited range of motion.
• contractures. Contractures arise, when tissues around a joint tighten and restrict movement. It may result from scarring of muscles or connective tissue, prolonged immobility or certain neurological conditions.
• Adhesive capsulitis. Also known as frozen shoulder, adhesive capsulitis causes stiffness and decreased range of motion in the shoulder joint.
• Nerve Damage. Injuries or conditions, affects the nerves, controlling muscle movement, such as stroke or peripheral neuropathy, may result in limited range of motion.

Symptoms of limited range of motion

Symptoms of limited range of motion may vary depending on the underlying cause and the affected joint.. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty moving the joint to its full extent.
• Pain or discomfort when trying to move the joint.
• Feeling of stiffness or tightness in the joint.
• Swelling or inflammation around the joint.
• Weakness or muscle imbalance.

When to see a doctor

If you experience persistent range of motion limitation, severe pain or if the condition interferes with your daily activities, it is recommended to consult a doctor for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Questions, that your doctor may ask

During your physical examination, your doctor may ask you the following questions::

• When did you first notice the limited range of motion?
• Whether limited range of motion is accompanied by pain or other symptoms?
• Have you ever had an injury or joint injury?
• You notice swelling or inflammation around the joint?
• Have you experienced any home remedies or medications, otpuskaemыe without prescription?
• Have you had a history of any comorbidities?

Diagnosis of limited range of motion

To diagnose the root cause of limited range of motion, doctor can do the following:

• Physical examination of the affected joint with assessment of range of motion, swelling and soreness.
• Viewing your medical history, including any previous injury or illness.
• Imaging studies, such as x-ray, MRI or computed tomography, to assess the structure of the joint and detect any abnormalities.
• Blood test to look for markers of inflammation or comorbidities.
• Aspiration sustava, in which a small amount of fluid is taken from the joint for analysis, if necessary
• Rheotachygraphy (DOH) or nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function if nerve damage is suspected

Treatment for limited range of motion

Treatment for limited range of motion focuses on addressing the underlying cause and improving joint mobility. Treatment options may include:

• Physiotherapy. A physiotherapist can develop an individual exercise program, which will help improve joint flexibility, strengthen muscles and expand range of motion. They may also include methods such as, like a stretch, joint mobilization or manual therapy.
• Medicines. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation, associated with such conditions., like arthritis or tendinitis. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be given directly into the joint., to reduce inflammation and improve mobility.
• Surgical intervention: if conservative measures are ineffective, surgery may be recommended to repair or remove damaged tissue, elimination of contractures or replacement of a damaged joint.
• Auxiliary devices. Depending on the affected joint, your doctor may suggest using assistive devices., such as staples, tires or canes, to support the joint and improve mobility.
• Occupational therapy. An occupational therapist can provide techniques and modifications, to help you perform everyday activities with a limited range of motion. They may offer adaptive tools or assistive devices to increase independence..

Home treatment for limited mobility

In addition to medical treatment, there are several self-care measures, things you can do at home, to cope with limited range of motion:

• Do prescribed exercises and stretching exercises, provided by your doctor or physiotherapist.
• Apply ice packs or warm compresses to the affected joint, to relieve pain and reduce swelling, as recommended by your doctor.
• Practice proper posture and body mechanics, to minimize stress on the joints and improve their overall function.
• Avoid actions, that increase pain or strain the affected joint.
• Consider using assistive devices or adaptive tools, to make everyday tasks easier and less stress on your joints.
• Maintain a healthy weight, to relieve excess pressure on the joints.

Prevention of limited range of motion

While not all causes of limited range of motion can be prevented, there are steps, you can take, to improve joint health and reduce the risk of certain diseases:

• Get regular exercise and physical activity, to maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength.
• Maintain proper body mechanics and ergonomics when performing repetitive tasks or lifting heavy objects, to minimize the risk of injury.
• Take breaks and add stretching exercises during prolonged sitting or repetitive movements.
• Warm up before exercise or sports, to prepare joints and muscles.
• Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet to support overall joint health.
• Avoid excessive or repetitive stress on your joints and practice proper technique when exercising or playing sports.

Used sources and literature

Debski RE, Patel NK, Shearn JT. Basic concepts in biomechanics. In: Miller MD, Thompson SR, eds. DeLee, The sink, & Miller’s Orthopaedic Sports Medicine. 5th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 2.

Magee DJ, Manx RC. Primary care assessment. Magee DJ, Manx RC, eds. Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 7th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2021:chap 17.