How to differentiate between limited activity and activity impairment

In general, restricted movement refers to a limited range of basic physical activity caused by damage to certain parts of the body, while movement impairment refers to the inability of an injured area to function normally. A detailed explanation is as follows:

Restricted movement usually means that a person suffers from conditions affecting the brain, eyes, joints, or other areas, resulting in movement confined to a specific range. For example, someone with arthritis may be unable to engage in extensive physical activity, or individuals with eye diseases may have a narrower field of vision compared to healthy individuals. Movement impairment, on the other hand, refers to the inability to move normally due to injury—such as a person with a fracture who must remain bedridden and cannot perform normal movements of the affected area. Restricted movement primarily indicates a limitation in the range of motion, often arising from physiological or psychological factors. In contrast, movement impairment typically means a body part is inherently unable to move and requires rest or assistance to function. It is commonly seen in people with disabilities; for instance, many disabled individuals rely on wheelchairs for mobility, which falls under movement impairment.

It is recommended that patients seek medical attention promptly when experiencing discomfort and receive standardized treatment under a doctor's guidance, which can facilitate recovery.