In order for a joint to have full range of motion, it must have good flexibility. Each joint has its own level of flexibility, expressed in degrees. Flexibility is the range of motion around a joint, and can refer to ligaments, tendons, muscles, bones, and joints. If a joint has good range of motion then it would be able to move in all planes and directions permitted to that joint.

Flexibility is important for general health, injury prevention, and sports performance. Factors that may contribute to a lack in the range of motion could be pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, side effects common in arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. Injuries can have lasting effects on how freely a joint moves. Other factors that can determine one’s flexibility are joint structure, muscles, tendons, ligaments, fat tissue, body temperature, activity level, gender, age, and genetics.

Good Luck!

LTC Torque Fitness & Wellbeing Team!