What if physiotherapy does not relieve reduced range of motion?

A joint may remain difficult to move because pain or swelling limits effort, muscles have become weak or guarded, scar tissue affects movement, or the original injury has not fully settled. The restriction may also be coming from tissues around the joint rather than the joint itself. A review can compare active movement, assisted movement, strength, stability, and how the limitation affects dressing, walking, work, or other tasks.

Describe the exact direction that is limited, when it began, and whether the restriction is changing. Note swelling, catching, locking, numbness, or weakness as well.

Show your physiotherapist which movements remain limited and what happens when you practise them. They may change the range, resistance, repetitions, hands-on treatment, or pacing, or recommend a medical assessment. Use only the stretching and strengthening approach agreed with your clinician; forcing a joint beyond a firm or painful limit can aggravate symptoms.

Bring information about injury, surgery, immobilisation, previous joint problems, and medicines. Learn more from [Reduced Range of Motion](/symptoms/reduced-range-of-motion/) and [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/).

Seek prompt assessment if movement suddenly worsens, the joint becomes hot or markedly swollen, or you develop fever or feel unwell. Get earlier help for new numbness, weakness, a locked joint, inability to bear weight, or a limb that looks deformed. A severe limitation after significant trauma needs urgent evaluation.

Ask: Which structure may be limiting movement? Do I need an examination or imaging? What range should I practise today? How can I tell normal exercise effort from a warning symptom?