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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

Definition: Range of motion is the normal range of movement for a joint, specifically:

flexion (how far it can be bent)

extension (how far it can be stretched out)

Joints are where bones come together. Joints hold the bones together and allow for movement of the skeleton. All of the bones form joints (except the hyoid bone in the neck). Joints are complex structures made up of many parts.

See this Image: The Structure Of A Joint
See our Article: What are Joints?

What Is Limited Or Reduced Range of Motion?

Limited range of motion is a reduction in a joints normal range of movement. Limited range of motion can result from:

mechanical problems

swelling

muscle spasticity

joint pain

inflammation (bursitis, tendonitis, etc.)

infection

injury (sports injuries, fractures, dislocations, etc.)

disease (many types of arthritis can lead to decreased range of motion)

See this Image: Limited Range Of Motion

What Are Range Of Motion Exercises?

Many doctors, physical therapists and occupational therapists recommend exercise for people with arthritis, especially in regard to the joints.

Range of motion exercises are gentle stretching exercises that move each joint as far as possible in all directions. Normal daily activities do not take joints through their full range of motion.

Range of motion exercises are recommend to help keep joints mobile, prevent stiffness and reduce deformities.

For An In-Depth Explanation Of Range Of Motion Exercises:

See our Article: Exercise: Essential Treatment For Arthritis

Pronunciation: raynge-of-mo-shun

Also Known As: ROM, R-O-M

Examples: Exercises can improve range of motion.