How do you safely perform passive range-of-motion exercises?

• A. Move joints rapidly to achieve full ROM
• B. Use resistance to increase effort
• C. Stop if pain or crepitus; do not force beyond ROM; perform all joints through full ROM slowly
• D. Force beyond ROM if patient complains of stiffness

Answer: (D)

Passive range-of-motion exercises involve a caregiver moving a patient’s joint through its available range when the patient cannot move it themselves. The aim is to keep joints flexible, promote circulation, and help prevent contractures, all without causing muscle exertion or tissue injury.

The safest and most appropriate approach is to move the joint slowly and gently through its full ROM, stopping if pain or crepitus occurs, and never forcing the joint beyond its limits. There’s no resistance involved in passive ROM because the patient isn’t actively generating force; applying resistance or forcing beyond the joint’s ROM would increase injury risk. Quick movements or pushing beyond what the joint can safely do are also unsafe.