Important Definitions and Abbreviations

Active Range of Motion (AROM)

AROM is moving a joint or limb without assistance—using only your muscles to move a body part. AROM helps to improve strength by moving a limb against gravity or weight.

Passive Range of Motion (PROM)

PROM is moving a joint or limb with assistance—like raising an arm by holding it up with your other arm. PROM improves range of motion and prevents stiffness without putting weight on the joint that’s healing.

Active-Assist Range of Motion (AAROM)

AAROM is moving a joint or limb with partial assistance from an outside force. It’s usually performed because of weakness, pain, or changes in muscle tone secondary to injury or surgery. AAROM engages muscles during the early stages of recovery.