This handout gives step- by-step instructions for 16 exercises to increase your range of motion. The instructions use the “SAM” format to describe the correct motions and body position needed to do the exercises safely. Please remind your attendants to use careful movements, and not to hurt their backs.
If your joints are very painful and swollen, move them gently through their range of motion. These exercises should be done slowly and steadily. It is important with ROM exercises not to force movements and to stop a movement if it causes you pain. Damage to the joint space can occur if too much force is applied.
Range of motion exercises for the hand are movements and stretches that straighten and bend the joints in the fingers, thumb, and wrist. These exercises help to improve movement, reduce stiffness and swelling, and help your hand move in all the ways that you need for everyday activities. Complete the check marked.
These gentle movements are called “self-range of motion” exercises, and they help to maintain your movement, prevent stiffness, improve blood flow, and increase awareness of your affected arm and hand. Complete the exercises slowly and do not force movements. Stop if you feel pain.
These exercises can help to improve the range of movement and decrease stiffness/pain at the joints of the arm. The shoulder blade/scapula must be stretched first before any shoulder movement
Self-Range of Motion Exercises for Shoulders, Arms, Wrists, Fingers. These exercises will help keep your muscles strong and mobile, and your joints flexible. Other benefits of these exercises include: • Improved blood flow. • Reduced swelling. • Integrated sensory and motor function. • Improved awareness of body. • Improved body symmetry.
Author: Sarah Housman, MS, OTR/L; Mary Pearson OTR/L. These exercises for joints of the arm and neck can help: maintain the range of movement; minimize stiffness; decrease pain; improve awareness of the weaker side of the body. Prepare for improved performance of daily activities.
This handout gives step-by-step instructions for 16 exercises to increase your range of motion. Do each of these exercises ______ times, ______ times a day. These instructions use the “SAM” format to describe the correct motions and body position needed to do the exercises safely.
These exercises are for use at home following instruction by a member of your healthcare team. When performed as directed, these exercises help increase the strength of the muscles and the range of motion of the joints in your hand. Please complete each exercise slowly and smoothly.
Last update: 08/15/2022. If you have been finding challenging to go about your daily tasks due to stiffness, edema, or discomfort in your hands, the right workouts will help you get back into action. Different hand exercises may be recommended by therapists for different conditions.