AAROM goals NOT listed include initiating gentle muscle activation.

• A. Initiate gentle muscle activation
• B. Increase passive ROM beyond function
• C. Transition toward active movement
• D. Maintain mobility while protecting tissues

Answer: (B)

Active-assisted range of motion focuses on reintroducing movement by having the patient contribute effort while a clinician provides just enough help to complete the motion. This approach supports gentle muscle activation, neuromuscular re-education, and progression toward independent movement, while protecting healing tissues. It also aims to maintain joint mobility so stiffness and contracture are minimized, and to bridge toward more active participation as strength and control return.

Increasing passive range of motion beyond functional needs isn’t a typical aim of this method. Pushing passive ROM past what’s required for daily activities is more aligned with PROM or targeted stretching, which don’t develop active control and can risk over-stretching tissue.