Controlled Articular Rotations or CAR’s are best defined as active, rotational movements at the outer limits of articular motion. In simpler terms you can think of them as intentional joint circles that are performed slowly and actively with the goal to touch end range tissue in each joint. I also like to refer to them as flossing for your joints.

Their main functions include range of motion (ROM) maintenance, joint health and longevity, articular screening and rehabilitation. They accomplish these goals by providing signaling for tissue remodeling to allow for maximal tissue elongation, engaging all articular mechanoreceptors on a regular basis, preventing maturation of fibrotic tissue, and delaying/ preventing the onset of osteoarthrosis.

Click each box below for further explanation and joint specific movements you can try.