ACTIVE FREE
EXERCISES
ZAINAB ALI
ASSISTANT LECTURER
PHYSIOTHERAPY DEPARTMENT
Definition:
Free active exercises are those which
are performed by the pt’s own
muscular efforts without the
assistance or resistance of any external
force, other than that of the gravity.
Definition:
Active free exes vary widely in character and effect because of:
1. The nature & and extent of the movement.
2. How they are performed.
* Active free ex’s can be used to obtain any effects which are
produced by ex’s as a whole, if it is performed & and used judiciously.
Indications of active free exercises:
In cases of m. weakness.
After removal of plaster cast following surgical procedures (tendon or m.
transplantation).
Muscle re-education.
Limitation of ROM.
Cardiovascular or respiratory disorders.
Inability to do basic functional ADL independently
Goals of active free exercises:
1. To improve circulation.
2. To ↑ rate & depth of respiration.
3. To mobilize stiff joints.
4. To improve ROM.
5. To strengthen weak ms.
6. To improve coordination & balance.
7. To achieve ADL independently.
8. To correct deformities.
9. To improve posture.
10.To improve gait & ambulation
Contra-indications of free exercise:
1. Immediately after cardiovascular disorders e.g. myocardial infarction
& and angina pectoris.
2. Immediately after a recent tear to ligament, m., or injured joints.
3. At the site of #.
4. Recent surgical procedures to tendons, ligaments, muscles, joint
capsules or skin.
5. Diseases of bone (e.g. TB) & pathological # (e.g. osteoporosis &
tuberculosis of bone).
6. Acute joint inflammation.
7. Acute muscle inflammation.
8. Muscle swelling.
9. Severe joint pain.
Classification of active free exercises:
It may be classified according to the extent of the part involved into:
Localized.
General.
1. Localized:
Are designed primarily to produce some local & specific effects.
E.g.:
a. Mobilization of a particular joint or
b. Strengthening of particular m. group.
E.g.: Pendulum ex. for the shoulder.
2. General:
These are free exercises that usually involve the use of many joints & and
muscles all over the body.
Their effect is widespread.
E.g.:
a. Coordination ex.
b. Respiratory ex.
Rules & principles of active free exs.
(procedures):
1. Instructions:
Instructions are given in a manner that will gain the
interest
and cooperation of the pt.
2. Starting position
It is selected and taught with care to ensure the maximum
postural efficiency as a basis for the movement.
The P.T. must choose it according to:
The pt’s condition
Type of active ex.
The type of m. contraction desired.
3. Speed of movement
The speed at which the exercises are done depends on the effects
required.
It is usually slow during the period of learning & later the pt. is
either allowed to find his own natural rhythm or the speed desired is
dictated by the P.T.
It often helps the pt to maintain his natural rhythm at home.
During practice under the P.T. supervision the pt. is encouraged to
count loudly.
4. Progression
An active free ex. program must be progressive and as soon as the pt.
is capable of performing a more difficult task, he should be
encouraged to do it.
Constant re-evaluation of the pt’s abilities is essential to allow the re-
education to be progressive.
5. Repetitions
The number of times the movement is repeated depends on:
A- The aim
(strengthening or endurance).
B - The fatigue of the ms.
* The condition which has caused the m weakness must be known &
and understood as in some conditions m. fatigue can be injurious.
Group Therapy
1. Goals of group therapy.
2. Rules of choosing the members of the group.
3. Location of group therapy.
4. Tools used in group therapy.
Reference
Therapeutic exercise foundation and technique /2012
THANK YOU
