The available range of movement in the joint should be noted. In some cases the range should be accurately measured but in most cases of neurological disorder this is not really necessary. Passive and active range should be assessed since many patients cannot move the joints because of muscle weakness, hypotonia or hypertonia. When assessing the passive movements available the physiotherapist should remember to check the biological length of two joint muscles as well as individual joint ranges.
If the patient is known to be spastic it should be remembered that certain positions of the head and neck could make movement of joints less available. For instance, supine lying could make hip and knee flexion very difficult for either the patient or the operator. The doctor should try to ascertain the reason for limitation of movement, note any fixed deformity and also any habitual posturing.
