Overview
Range of motion exercises and therapy sessions help maintain flexibility and lubrication of joints. Range of motion exercises are often performed on individuals diagnosed with joint conditions such as osteoporosis or arthritis.  Range of motion exercise is also performed following surgery, and is often engaged in a hospital shortly after a surgical procedure or prolonged stay.

Who Benefits From Range of Motion Exercise or Therapy?
Any individual who has recently undergone a surgical procedure or those who find that old injuries limit mobility or flexibility may benefit from a range of motion exercises. Individuals who have had joint replacement procedures will benefit from range of motion exercises that not only promote healing, but also help strengthen the new joint.
 
Individuals such as those diagnosed with bone and joint conditions may find that range of motion exercises maintains function and mobility of the joints, and experience reduction of stiffness and pain caused by immobility, as well as strengthening and endurance in the affected joint area.

Types of Range Of Motion Exercises
There are two types of range of motion exercise. These types are defined as active or passive.  Active range of motion exercise is performed by the individual himself. For example, following instruction on how to perform the exercise, the person can perform these exercises in a hospital setting or at home following discharge.

Passive range of motion exercise is performed by a physical therapist or other individual or caregiver on the patient. Often, this scenario includes those who have just completed a surgical procedure, or those partially or totally paralyzed. Passive range of motion exercises are carefully performed by a licensed, trained and experienced physical or occupational therapist, depending on need.

Passive and active range of motion exercises are designed to help extend forward flexion as well as hyperextension. Exercises such as arm swings, pendulum arm swings, ankle and wrist rotations and other similar exercises are all considered range of motion exercise techniques.

Through careful monitoring and adequate range of motion exercises, individuals may increase the range of motion in their joints, depending on their current medical condition and procedure.  Range of motion exercises are not designed to build muscle strength or to promote the growth of muscles, but are excellent in maintaining tendon, ligament, and muscle flexibility, and in the maintenance of supple, flexible and lubricated joint function.

How Much Does Range of Motion Therapy Cost?
Cost of physical therapy that involves or includes range of motion exercise will vary depending on the body part or parts being exercised, as well as geographical location. In many areas of the United States, physical therapy and exercise may cost up to $100 for every 15 minutes of exercise. A physical therapy evaluation may cost an average of $170. These costs may decrease or increase depending on the facility, the physical therapist, the need and prognosis of overall joint health, or that type of surgical procedure or strengthening exercise is ordered by a physician.

However, individuals traveling to foreign destinations may save on physical therapy costs, especially those that are coupled with orthopedic procedures such as knee or hip replacement.

Who Performs Range of Motion Therapy and Exercise?
A physical therapist generally performs initial range of motion therapy and exercises, and instructs the patient on how to perform such exercises by himself when strength, balance and coordination have improved. Physical therapists often hold a Master's degree in the field, which takes 2 to 3 years post-general education and training to complete. Doctorates may take an additional 3 to 4 years for completion.

As with any specialized form of care, physical therapists should belong to an accredited physical therapy association or organization in his or her country of origin. Eligibility requirements may differ by location, but include graduation from certified or accredited physical therapy training and education programs, exams, and state or country requirements in order to maintain licensure.