Range of motion or (ROM), as used in the medical and weightlifting communities, is a measurement of movement through a particular joint or muscle range.

Types of range of motion extension

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Extending through the range of motion (stretching to increase flexibility) may be passive (a caregiver or therapist moves the joint) or active (the individual moves the joint themselves).

A person who uses a wheelchair would improve the range of motion in their spine, hips, knees & ankles by using a standing frame. It is necessary that the gain in joint range be accompanied by the gain in function of the muscles which control that particular range of motion.

Active range of motion

Active range of motion can be further classified into

1. Free active movements
2. Resisted active movements

The difference being that resisted active movements have more force to overcome than the weight of the limb or body fighting gravity, such as adding weights to the limb, a physician resisting it with pressure, or a stretch band. This is done to gain strength and endurance

Exercise | Rehabilitation medicine