What causes reduced range of motion?

A joint may stop short because pain makes the muscles protect it, swelling fills space, or a muscle, tendon, ligament, capsule, or nerve cannot tolerate stretch. After an injury or a period of immobilisation, tissues can lose flexibility. [Osteoarthritis](/conditions/osteoarthritis/) may make movement stiff and painful. [Frozen Shoulder](/conditions/frozen-shoulder/) restricts shoulder movement through tightening around the joint, while [Dupuytren's Contracture](/conditions/dupuytren-contracture/) can limit finger straightening. Spinal stiffness may occur with [Ankylosing Spondylitis](/conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/).

The affected joint, speed of onset, pain pattern, swelling, and whether another person can move the joint farther all help identify the likely source. A single symptom does not identify one condition.

Keep the joint moving gently within a comfortable range unless you have been told to immobilise it. Avoid forcing a stiff or recently injured joint. Heat may ease stiffness, while cold can soothe soreness after activity. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can combine mobility work, strength training, and activity changes suited to the affected area.

Arrange an assessment when limitation persists, worsens, affects daily tasks, or follows repeated swelling. Seek prompt care after a major injury, visible deformity, a hot red joint with fever, sudden weakness, or inability to use the limb.

Ask whether pain, swelling, weakness, or a mechanical block is limiting movement, whether imaging is useful, and which exercises or restrictions apply to your joint.