What is Range of Motion, Anyway? And Why Does It Matter?

Every joint in your body has a normal, expected range of motion (ROM), a blueprint for how far it should be able to move, determined by factors like joint structure, muscles, and connective tissues. However, this optimal ROM can be significantly decreased by various common culprits, including muscle tightness, scar tissue, inflammation, nerve entrapment, or even a sedentary lifestyle – imagine a stiff neck where you can't turn your head to an extent that makes driving difficult. Understanding what limits your ROM is crucial, as ignoring these restrictions can lead to increased injury risk, chronic pain, and a reduced quality of life. The good news is that through targeted bodywork and conscious movement, many of these limitations are addressable, helping you regain your natural freedom of movement.