Module 5: Range of Motion and Manual Muscle Testing for Shoulder and Elbow

Importance of Assessments

• Range of motion (ROM) and manual muscle testing (MMT) are critical for evaluating functional movements.
• Key for daily activities such as reaching, lifting, and precise tasks (e.g., writing, using tools).
• Accurate assessments tailor interventions to enhance functional independence.

Range of Motion (ROM) for Shoulders

• Shoulder Flexion and Extension
  • Flexion: Moving arm forward/upward (e.g., reaching overhead).
  • Extension: Moving arm backward (e.g., opening doors).
• Abduction and Adduction
  • Abduction: Moving arm away from body (e.g., reaching to side, putting on a jacket).
  • Adduction: Bringing arm towards body.
• Internal and External Rotation
  • Internal Rotation: Rotating arm towards body (e.g., fastening seat belts, tucking shirt).
  • External Rotation: Rotating arm away from body (e.g., brushing hair, throwing).
• Protraction and Retraction
  • Protraction: Moving shoulder blade forward.
  • Retraction: Pulling shoulder blade backward.

Range of Motion (ROM) for Elbows

• Elbow Flexion and Extension
  • Flexion: Bending elbow (e.g., bringing food to mouth).
  • Extension: Straightening elbow (e.g., pushing objects away).

Manual Muscle Testing (MMT)

• Purpose: Determine muscle strength, identify weaknesses impacting performance.
• Approach:
  1. Explain the procedure to the client.
  2. Position the client against gravity to assess strength.
  3. Stabilize joint to prevent compensatory movements.
  4. Have the client perform movement actively; apply resistance if feasible.
  5. Use gravity minimized positions if necessary.
  6. Palpate muscle to identify contractions or lack thereof.
  7. Record results accurately, noting the client's position.
• Example: For shoulder flexion, apply resistance at distal humerus and palpate anterior deltoid.

Application in Practice

• Effective measurement aids in designing targeted exercise programs.
• Example: Shoulder abduction weakness may be addressed by targeting deltoid muscles.
• Understanding compensatory movements helps prevent further injury.

Key Takeaways

• ROM and MMT provide essential data for assessing and improving functional abilities.
• Practice and application of these concepts are crucial for effective client interventions and improving quality of life.

Note: Attend future sessions for continued learning and application. The next meeting is on Wednesday.