What is the difference between active and passive movement in physiotherapy?

Note: The video for this article is available in Hindi and can be viewed here. 

This article talks about muscle atrophy and how physiotherapy can improve muscle tonicity in this condition. Ms. Lakshmi shares information about the different types of physiotherapy approaches and how each process works. 

Muscular atrophy refers to the loss of muscle mass. This directly contributes towards loss of tone and strength of the affected muscle, which compromises quality of life of the affected individual. Depending on the condition, the muscle loss can be reversed by physical exercises offered through physiotherapy. 

Some of the goals of physical rehabilitation through physiotherapy include strengthening of the wasted muscles, preventing further loss or damage to those muscles, thus contributing towards the emotional and physical well-being of your child.

Ms. Lakshmi, a physiotherapist with the Latika Roy Foundation has addressed some related questions in the video:

What is the difference between active and passive movement in physiotherapy?

Active movement

• Active movement refers to the movement initiated and carried out by the child themself. 
• For example, when a child sees something of interest, and reaches out for it voluntarily and independently, it is referred to as active movement.
• Active movement  is important for the child, since the more the muscles are used in different activities like sitting, walking,  stretching etc. there is greater improvement in the muscle strength, tonicity and flexibility. 
• Through different movements and exercises, a physiotherapist can work on helping the child with active movement. 

Passive movement

• Passive movement refers to movement which is carried out by external help.
• If a similar movement is carried out with help, like a therapist or a parent  helping the child reach out to the toy, it is referred to as passive movement.

What is muscle atrophy and how do we avoid it?

Muscle atrophy refers to a condition where the muscles are not being used to  its fullest extent. This may result in muscle weakness and muscle wastage in the longer run. Movement in the body when the muscles are not very strong, may also result in other injuries, as the body is not well supported.

Therefore, through different exercises in physiotherapy, we can improve muscle strength and tonicity, aiding the body to perform the different activities. 

What is the role of physiotherapy equipment and should we use it?

The use of equipment in physiotherapy like stimulators and treadmills are not recommended too often, since their use can be categorised as passive movement. This may in some cases, limit the child’s own independent use of his muscles, hindering improvement. 

When and where can parents seek help about developmental delays?

Most healthcare centres, even agawadis, provide adequate information in the form of growth charts regarding the appropriate developmental milestones. Parents can use that information as a guide to observe if their children are achieving those milestones suitably. 

In case parents notice that there are delayed or missed milestones, it is important that they immediately consult and seek guidance from their healthcare workers. They carry out a complete evaluation and may suggest approaching the relevant therapists to work with the child.

The atrophy or wastage of the muscle due to a developmental complexity can become worse with disuse of the affected muscle. In these situations, physical activity rendered through physiotherapy is the best course of action to help rebuild some of the wasted muscle over a period of time. 

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this guide is for information purposes only. Please consult a qualified health practitioner for safe management.

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