Previous injuries (Related impairments to ROM) can impair ROM in what way?

• A. Can improve ROM with therapy
• B. Only affects strength
• C. Has no impact on ROM
• D. Can restrict ROM or movement quality

Answer: (D)

Injuries can create changes in tissues and how the body moves that both limit how far a joint can move and how smoothly that movement occurs. Scar formation, adhesions, and stiffness in muscles, tendons, ligaments, or the joint capsule can physically reduce range of motion. Pain, swelling, and protective guarding can further limit motion to protect the injured area. But ROM isn’t only about distance; it also reflects movement quality. Injuries can disrupt neuromuscular control, proprioception, and coordination, leading to compensations, jerky or unsteady movements, and less efficient mechanics. Because these factors can simultaneously reduce how much you can move and how well you move, previous injuries can restrict ROM or movement quality.