Intermediate
Technical
IVT
compensatory movement pattern
Altered movement strategy adopted to avoid pain or weakness, often perpetuating dysfunction.
Full Definition
An alternative movement strategy that develops when the body adapts to injury, pain, or muscle weakness by recruiting different muscle groups or altering joint mechanics. While initially protective, compensatory patterns can become habitual and lead to secondary problems if not addressed during rehabilitation. Exercise rehabilitation aims to identify and correct these patterns through targeted interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from protective guarding, which is a conscious pain avoidance behavior.
In Context
- "The patient demonstrated a compensatory movement pattern, hiking the shoulder during arm elevation due to rotator cuff weakness." — Physical therapy assessment report
- "Exercise prescription focused on breaking the compensatory movement pattern before progressing to functional activities." — Treatment plan documentation
Also known as
movement compensation
faulty movement pattern
Contrasted with
optimal movement pattern
normal movement
Don't confuse with
protective guarding
muscle substitution