PROVIDING RANGE OF MOTION (ROM) EXERCISES

Types of ROM Exercises:

1. Active ROM exercises
- This are isotonic exercises wherein the client moves each joint in the body through its
complete range of movement. This stretches all muscle groups within each place over the
joint.
Purposes:
a. Maintains or increases muscle strength or endurance
b. Helps maintain cardiorespiratory function in an immobilized client
c. Prevents deterioration of joint capsules and contractures
- Health Teaching:
a. Instruct client who is performing active ROM exercises to:
 Perform each ROM exercise as taught and to the point of slight resistance and
never to the point of discomfort.
 Perform movements systematically and use the same sequence during each
session.
 Perform each exercise for three times.
 Perform each series of exercise twice daily.
b. Emphasize to older adults to perform ROM exercises that provide sufficient range of
motion to carry out activities of daily living.
2. Passive ROM exercises
-This are exercises where another person moves each of the clients joints through its
complete range of movement.
Purpose:
a. Maintains joint flexibility

ROM EXERCISES BSN-1E

Procedures: PROVIDING PASSIVE ROM EXERCISES
Suggested actions Rationale
1. Explain the procedure to the client. Prevents hand swelling.
2. Remove all accessories (i.e. rings and
watches) Promotes ease in movement and
3. Clothe the client in loose gown and provide warmth to the client.
cover the body with a bath blanket. Avoids muscle strain or injury to the
4. Use correct body mechanics when nurse and the client.
providing passive ROM exercises. Avoids strain on the nurse’s back.
5. Position bed at an appropriate height. Avoids embarrassing the client and
6. Expose only the limb being exercised. ensures that warmth is maintained.
7. Support client’s limbs above and Prevents muscle strain and injury.
below the joint as needed by:
a. Cupping joints in the palm of the
hand
b. Cradling limbs along the forearm

If joint is painful, support the limb in the

muscular areas above and below the joint.

Use firm, comfortable grip when handling the

limb.

8. Move the body parts smoothly, slowly and

rhythmically. Prevents muscle strain and injury.
Avoid moving or forcing a body part
beyond the existing range of motion.
If spasticity occurs:
 Stop movement temporarily, but
continue to apply slow, gentle
pressure on the part until the muscle
relaxes,then proceed with the motion.
If contracture is present:
 Apply slow firm pressure, without
causing pain, to stretch the muscles

If rigidity occurs:
 Apply pressure against the rigidity,
and
continue the exercise slowly.

9. Assess the skin while performing the

exercise.

ROM EXERCISES BSN-1E