Description of Finis Range of Motion (ROM) Strap.

The Finis ROM (Range of Motion) Strap is designed to help stretch the arms, shoulders, shoulder blades, upper torso, and rib cage. The ROM Strap passively retains each hand. This passive retention allows the transmission of pulling or traction forces up the arm without the need to contract the muscles of the hand, forearm, and upper arm as would be necessary if the hands were not passively retained. This allows more effective stretching of the upper body.

It is very important to stretch cautiously so no shoulder damage occurs. The shoulder is a muscle-retained joint: that is, the muscles which are in the area of the shoulder hold the shoulder joint together. To prevent injury, it is necessary to keep the muscles which hold the shoulder joint together lightly contracted so the shoulder is safe, while allowing other muscles of the area to relax so they can be stretched.

The ROM Strap makes this easier than it sounds. Start each stretch very gradually. Use low forces. Stretch for 15 seconds, then reduce stretch force, move the shoulder blade around (like shrugging the shoulders) and then begin stretching again. Repeat this sequence several times. If you feel stress in the shoulder joint itself, then reduce the force. It may take several stretching sessions before you develop the coordination to relax the desired muscles while keeping the shoulder joint muscles tight enough. After you learn this, you can increase force levels and stretching time significantly.

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