Range of Motion

Range of motion is the degree of movement a joint has when it is extended, flexed, and rotated through all of its possible movements. A joint becomes stressed or overextended if it is moved past its natural range.

A person may increase a joint's range of motion through regular, gentle stretching exercises as directed by a health professional. Often these exercises are recommended after an injury or surgery to help prevent joint stiffness.

Current as of: October 14, 2016

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine & A. Evan Eyler, MD, MPH - Family Medicine, Psychiatry