What does active range of motion (ROM) test?

Active range of motion (ROM) tests focus primarily on the client's willingness and ability to contract their muscles to move a joint through its full range of motion. This assessment reflects not only the physiological capability of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments involved but also the client's neuromuscular control and their motivation to perform the movement.

When a therapist evaluates active ROM, they observe how well the client can initiate and control the movement independently, which provides valuable insights into their overall function and any potential restrictions due to pain, injury, or muscle weakness. This is different from passive range of motion, where a therapist moves the client's limbs without assistance from the client.

Other aspects related to flexibility and muscle stretching are not the primary focus of active ROM assessments, as those elements may be evaluated separately through specific flexibility tests or stretching activities. Testing resistance to movement typically pertains to strength assessments rather than active ROM. Thus, the correct understanding of active ROM centers around the client's active participation in muscle contraction and movement initiation.