Range of motion is defined as the extent of movement of a joint.

The clinical condition that may demonstrate that a reduction in ROM is unavoidable is :limbs or digits immobilized because of injury or surgical procedures(e.g., surgical adhesions).

Adequate preventative care may include active ROM performed by the resident’s passive ROM performed by staff; active-assistive ROM exercise performed by the resident and staff; and application of splints and braces, if necessary.

Examples of clinical conditions that are the primary risk factors for a decreased range of motion are:

• Immobilization(e.g., bedfast)
• Deformities arising out of neurological deficits( e.g., strokes, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and polio; and
• Pain, spasms, and immobility associated with arthritis or late state Alzheimer’s disease.

This clinical condition may demonstrate that a reduction in ROM is unavoidable only if adequate assessment, appropriate care planning, and preventative care was provided, and resulted in limitation in ROM or muscle atrophy.