When would a therapist utilize AR-ROM (active-resisted)?

Active-resisted range of motion (AR-ROM) is a technique primarily used to evaluate and enhance the strength of contractile tissues such as muscles. It involves the patient actively moving a joint against resistance provided by the therapist, which allows for the assessment of the strength and endurance of the muscles involved in that movement. This form of assessment can help identify specific weaknesses or imbalances in muscle function that may need to be addressed in treatment.

Using AR-ROM is particularly effective because it engages the muscle's capability to contract under resistance, providing a clear indication of both the muscle's strength as well as the joint's overall function. In rehabilitation and treatment planning, understanding a patient's strength in these areas is crucial for developing an effective therapeutic approach.

The other options focus on different aspects of treatment or assessment that do not align with the purpose of AR-ROM. For instance, passive stretching involves the therapist moving the joint without patient engagement, which is fundamentally different from active resistance. Assessing joint stability typically relies on different techniques that do not engage the muscle in the same manner, and relaxation techniques are aimed at calming the body rather than testing or strengthening it.