Which type of ROM is utilized when a patient's strength has decreased due to an injury or pathology?

Active-assisted range of motion (AA-ROM) is particularly beneficial for patients who have experienced a decrease in strength due to injury or other pathological conditions. This technique involves a combination of active and passive movement, where the patient engages actively in the motion while receiving assistance to complete the full range of movement.

Using AA-ROM helps in several ways: it encourages muscle activation to help maintain or improve strength without overexerting the affected areas. This method also promotes joint mobility and flexibility, essential for a patient recovering from an injury, as it enables them to perform movements they might not be able to achieve on their own due to weakness. Moreover, it fosters a sense of control and participation in the rehabilitation process, which is vital for patient motivation and adherence to therapy.

The other types of ROM serve different purposes. For example, active-free and active-resisted ROM exercises focus on the patient performing movements independently or against resistance, which might not be appropriate for someone whose strength is compromised. Passive-forced ROM is used when the patient cannot move their limbs at all, as it does not involve any active participation from the patient. Thus, AA-ROM stands out as the most suitable choice for aiding recovery while being mindful of the patient's current capability.