What does Active ROM refer to in osteopathic practice?

Active range of motion (ROM) refers specifically to the movement that a patient can achieve by actively contracting their own muscles. In osteopathic practice, this concept is crucial as it helps assess the functional ability of a patient’s joints and muscles. When a patient performs movements like flexion, extension, or rotation without any external assistance, it demonstrates their muscle strength and joint stability.

This is distinct from passive range of motion, where an external force, such as a therapist's assistance, helps move the joint without any effort from the patient. Understanding active ROM helps practitioners identify any limitations in a patient's musculoskeletal function, providing insights for diagnosis and treatment planning.

By focusing on the patient’s own muscle contractions, osteopathic practitioners can better evaluate the strength, coordination, and potential areas of dysfunction in the musculoskeletal system.