What is the purpose of joint range-of-motion exercises in Phase II?

The purpose of joint range-of-motion exercises in Phase II primarily focuses on improving mobility and flexibility. At this stage of rehabilitation, patients have typically progressed from the acute phase of healing where the main goal was to manage pain and swelling. Phase II emphasizes restoring normal movement patterns and increasing the range of motion in the affected joints.

Improving mobility and flexibility is crucial because it helps prevent stiffness and ensures that the joints function properly as the individual returns to their daily activities or sports. These exercises can also help strengthen the connective tissues around the joint and promote better circulation, which supports the healing process without placing excessive strain on the injured area.

While decreasing pain, strengthening muscles, and reducing swelling are also important components of rehabilitation, they are not the primary focus of range-of-motion exercises in this particular phase. Instead, those aspects tend to be addressed through other therapeutic methods or exercises tailored to those specific goals at different stages of rehabilitation.