PROM is an important aspect of physical therapy, rehabilitation and fitness training. It involves moving a joint through its full range without any effort from the individual. Normally, a therapist, equipment, or another individual is needed to perform this movement. In this article, we will discuss what PROM is, its benefits, exercises, and its importance in maintaining joint health and flexibility.

What is PROM?

Measures of passive range of motion refer to the extent to which a particular joint can be moved by the use of an external force. Unlike other movement primitives which are executed based on the voluntary initiative of the individual muscle contraction is not invoked here. A therapist, partner, or even the force of gravity can give this force. The major difference between PROM and AROM is that, in AROM, an individual contract his muscles in order to generate movement while with PROM the joint movement is passive.

Key Characteristics of Passive Range of Motion

1. External Assistance: An external agent facilitates the movement rather than the individual's muscles.

2. No Muscle Contraction: A particular person remains calm throughout the exercise session.

3. Controlled Movements: Patients usually move in small circles and latex to avoid any harm to their bodies.

Patients who had injuries or undergone surgeries need to know about PROM. It goes along the way of helping maintain joint pliability and utility.

Benefits of Passive Range of Motion

PROM exercises are very beneficial, and even more so for those who are partly incapacitated as a result of an injury or an illness. Here are some key benefits:

Improves Joint Flexibility:

These PROM exercises are effective in the process of exercising and reinforcing joints flexibility. It is important in improving the general mobility and functioning amongst these patients.

Reduces Stiffness:

PROM may also decrease stiffness and pain in the areas where the joints are moved, if the range is completed.

Enhances Circulation:

The movements in PROM exercises cause a circulatory response to muscles and joints. This enhances the patients chances of recovery and also shortens the period that the patients take to be discharged from the hospital.

Prevents Contractures:

In the case of those who have to be moved around, PROM assists in counteracting contractures. These are rigorous hardening of muscles or tendons that cannot be flexible and that fix the part in that certain position.

Supports Rehabilitation:

Rehabilitation settings are common when it comes to the use of PROM by therapists. This serves to assist the patients to walk or move after surgery or an accident.

Simple Passive Mobilization Tasks

In fact, numerous passive range of motion exercises exist, and they can affect various joints of the body. Here are some common examples:

1. Shoulder Joint- Flexor and Extensor Muscles

How to Perform:

Hold one of the flared parts of the persons elbows with your hand. Take the other hand and grab their wrist. Put their arm up in front of them at the desired height and then up above their head brushing the opposite shoulder before lowering it.

2. Elbow Bends

How to Perform:

Keep the person's arm at their side with the palm facing up. Gently bend and straighten their arm at the elbow.

3. Hip Flexion

How to Perform:

With the person lying down, support their knee with one hand. Hold their ankle with the other hand, and slowly bend their knee towards their chest.

4. Ankle Flexion

How to Perform:

Hold the person's shin with one hand while cupping their heel with the other. Gently push against the bottom of their foot to bend the ankle upward.

5. Wrist Rotation

How to Perform:

Support the person's wrist with one hand and hold their fingers with the other. Gently roll their hand in circles in both directions.

Perform these exercises slowly and rhythmically. Ensure that they do not cause pain or discomfort.

Importance of Passive Range of Motion Exercises

Passive range of motion exercises are vital for maintaining joint health. This is especially true for individuals who cannot move independently due to medical conditions. Here are some reasons why these exercises are important:

1. Maintaining Joint Flexibility

PROM exercises help maintain and improve flexibility in joints. Regular movement prevents stiffness and ensures that joints remain functional. This is especially crucial for individuals who cannot move their limbs independently.

2. Preventing Contractures

Contractures occur when muscles and tendons shorten due to prolonged immobility. PROM exercises help prevent this shortening by keeping muscles and connective tissues stretched and flexible. This is vital for maintaining a good range of motion.

3. Enhancing Circulation

Movement promotes blood flow to the muscles and joints involved in PROM exercises. Improved circulation helps deliver essential nutrients to tissues and aids in the healing process, reducing recovery time after injury or surgery.

4. Reducing Muscle Spasticity

For patients with neurological conditions, such as stroke, PROM exercises can help reduce muscle spasticity. Regular gentle movements can relax tight muscles and improve overall comfort.

5. Facilitating Recovery After Stroke

For stroke survivors, PROM exercises are crucial for regaining mobility and function in affected limbs. They play a significant role in rehabilitation by helping patients recover lost motor skills and regain independence in daily activities.

6. Preparing for Active Exercises

PROM exercises lay the groundwork for more active rehabilitation efforts. By ensuring adequate joint flexibility, patients can progress to active range of motion (AROM) exercises more safely and effectively.

7. Supporting Emotional Well-Being

Engaging in PROM exercises can provide psychological benefits as well. Participating in rehabilitation can foster a sense of control and accomplishment, which is important for mental health during recovery.

Final Words

Passive range of motion is essential in physical therapy and rehabilitation. It helps maintain joint flexibility and prevents stiffness. Through various exercises that involve external assistance, individuals can enhance their mobility and support recovery after injuries or surgeries. Understanding and incorporating PROM into rehabilitation programs leads to improved outcomes for patients seeking to regain their strength and independence.