Loss of Joint Range of Movement

Reduced range of movement is where there is a limitation of the movement of a joint compared to how it was previously or in comparison to standard measurements. Losing the full range of movement of one or multiple joints can be a gradual process that occurs over time or may be the result of injury, disease or a complication of surgery. Even a small loss of range can have a big impact on function and will enviably cause an imbalance of structures or symptoms within the body. Other symptoms include pain or stiffness on moving the affected joint, this may lead to the sufferer, abstaining from movement to avoid the sensation of pain, which in turn leads to further stiffening and tightening. The help of an osteopath will help you to break this vicious cycle of pain and movement avoidance to lead a full and active life. 

The body has a natural ability to heal itself and by helping along with this process, osteopathy intervention may be able to promote the restoration of normal function. Following a thorough subjective and objective assessment, your osteopath will talk you through a wide range of available treatment options. 

A combination of stretching, massage, articulation and manipulation of joints, muscles and ligaments will be used to ensure these structures are functioning smoothly together. Your osteopath may provide gentle passive stretches which will go beyond the range of what you are able to actively achieve yourself, therefore speeding up the process to return to a full range of movement (where possible). With the support of the osteopath, gentle passive stretches can be held over a longer period which has been shown in research to be more effective than a quick, forceful stretch. 

Joint articulation and manipulation are were your joints are moved in small amplitude at a slow speed. This is done in the patient’s pain-free range of movement so should not be painful or uncomfortable. These movements increase the amount of synovial fluid present in a joint which in turn may reduce pain and improve the flexibility and range of movement. 

Complimentary massage can increase blood flow to areas of injury to speed up recovery and provide much-needed relaxation as well as potential improvements in muscle length by relieving tensions and tightness. Treatment options are available in any of the three London osteopath clinics, in Beckenham, central London and Holborn.