Knee ROM, or Range of Motion, refers to the degree of movement your knee joint can achieve, typically measured in degrees of flexion (bending) and extension (straightening). It significantly impacts your ability to perform daily activities and is a crucial factor in recovery after knee injuries or surgery.
Fundamentally, your knee range of motion determines the activities you can engage in, not just following surgery, but for the rest of your life. Paying attention to your ROM is thus extremely important.
Understanding Knee Range of Motion
Normal knee ROM allows for a wide variety of activities, from walking and running to squatting and kneeling. Restrictions in ROM can indicate an underlying problem.
- Flexion: The ability to bend the knee. Normal knee flexion is around 0-135 degrees. The higher the flexion number, the more you can bend your knee.
- Extension: The ability to straighten the knee. Normal knee extension is 0 degrees. Some people can even hyperextend (extend past zero) their knee.
Factors Affecting Knee ROM
Several factors can influence your knee's range of motion:
- Age: ROM tends to decrease with age.
- Injury: Trauma to the knee can limit movement.
- Surgery: Post-operative swelling and scar tissue can restrict ROM.
- Arthritis: Joint inflammation can significantly reduce ROM.
- Muscle tightness: Tight muscles around the knee (hamstrings, quadriceps) can impede movement.
- Pain: Pain can lead to guarding and reduced ROM.
Measuring Knee ROM
Physical therapists and doctors use a goniometer to measure knee ROM accurately. This tool helps determine the angle of flexion and extension. During assessment, you might be asked to:
- Actively move your knee yourself (active ROM).
- Allow the therapist to move your knee (passive ROM).
Comparing active and passive ROM can help identify the source of movement limitations.
Importance of Knee ROM
Maintaining and improving knee ROM is crucial for:
- Daily activities: Walking, climbing stairs, getting in and out of chairs.
- Sports and recreation: Running, jumping, cycling.
- Post-operative recovery: Restoring function after knee surgery.
- Pain management: Improved ROM can help reduce pain associated with knee conditions.
Improving Knee ROM
If you have limited knee ROM, several strategies can help:
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to improve flexibility and strength.
- Stretching: Regular stretching of the muscles around the knee.
- Strengthening exercises: Building strength in the muscles supporting the knee.
- Pain management: Addressing pain with medication or other therapies.
- Home exercise program: Consistent practice of exercises prescribed by your physical therapist.
Maintaining good knee ROM is essential for overall mobility and quality of life. If you experience limitations in your knee's movement, consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
