Our extended range of motion is often underappreciated until we begin to lose parts of it. Illnesses such as arthritis, tendonitis, and a whole assortment of other muscular, soft tissue, and bone disorders can gradually chip away at our ability to move. These disorders make our daily movements painful, and through this pain, limit our range of motion.
While there is a range of treatments for these disorders, there is as of yet not an absolute solution to the problems they may cause. There are, however, many ways we can limit the impact these types of disorders can have on our lives.
The Problems
Degenerative diseases eat away at the foundations of our soft tissues and gradually begin to impact the muscles, bones, and nerves these soft tissues once protected. As the soft tissues wear away, pain begins to emanate from the site of deterioration. Bones begin to rub against one another, muscles spasm and weaken, and nerves become pinched.
The result of all this havoc? Limited range of motion.
If a movement becomes painful for a person, most of the time he will simply stop performing those types of movements. As the problems gets worse, his range of motion becomes more and more restricted.
The Solutions
Now that we’ve discussed the most common reason for Limited Range of Motion, let’s go on to discover methods which can relieve the aforementioned agony.
Physical Therapy
If caught early enough, physical therapy may be enough to slow the progression of motion limiting disorders. Oftentimes, range of motion issues stem from the manner in which we move. Physical therapy can not only help strengthen the muscles surrounding the problem area, but it can also be a way to reshape the way we perform our movements.
If a certain type of daily motion may induce a painful reaction, physical therapists can teach the patient new methods of performing those same actions which ensure that the pain is kept to a minimum.
Tools
There are a range of tools at the disposal for anyone suffering from the effects of a limited range of motion. Grabbers can help extend reach, wheelchairs and walkers reduce the amount of weight being put on a problem area, grab bars help ensure people keep their balance, and there are many other tools which can all help reduce the pressure on a problem area.
Medication
If agony is persistent enough, medication can be the answer. Arthritic pain arises from swelling, and muscle and nerve agitation. With medication, the swelling can be virtually eliminated and pain can often be reduced. The problems with medication arise when these medications are abused. Prolonged exposure to certain types of medication can make matters worse or potentially lead to addiction.
On top of these issues, the effects of certain medications can wane over time, leading to higher and higher dosages which can aggravate the original issue.
Stem Cells, Platelet Rich Plasma, and Regenerative Therapies
A relatively new approach to an old problem, stem cell and regenerative therapies use natural bodily products to induce a healing response from the body. The body is not naturally adept at regenerating soft tissues.
As we age, these natural healing responses wane farther. Regenerative therapies use platelet rich plasma and various types of stem cells to call these natural healing responses to the site of damage and then incubate the site to promote the body’s natural healing factors.
With over 700 clinical trials going on throughout the globe, regenerative therapy is a promising solution to soft tissue, muscular, and bone damage.
There are many treatment options and tools available for those suffering from a limited range of motion. Research is critical in determining the best approach for a patient’s specific case. On top of this, it may be wise to seek advice from trained medical professionals. Talk to a doctor today if you are experiencing any sort of pain which is putting a limit on your range of motion.
