How does muscle tension influence joint mobility in the extremities?

• A. Increased muscle tension increases ROM.
• B. Increased muscle tension reduces ROM and can alter joint mechanics, increasing load on other structures.
• C. Muscle tension has no effect on joint mobility.
• D. Muscle tension only affects ligaments.

Answer: (B)

Muscle tension around a joint acts as a dynamic constraint on movement. When the surrounding muscles are tense, their passive stiffness resists lengthening as the joint moves, so the available range of motion decreases. This tightness can also alter how the joint surfaces glide and roll, changing the joint’s alignment during movement. Those changes in arthrokinematics shift forces through the joint, increasing load on other structures like ligaments, the joint capsule, cartilage, and nearby tendons. So, increased muscle tension not only reduces ROM but also modifies joint mechanics and elevates stress on secondary tissues, which can contribute to discomfort or injury.