PROM usage is typical when the patient cannot actively move, such as in paraplegia.

• A. Paraplegia
• B. Post-surgery
• C. High pain
• D. Active movement with full ROM

Answer: (A)

Passive range of motion is used when a patient cannot actively move a joint due to paralysis or severe weakness. In paraplegia, motor function is lost below the level of injury, so the patient cannot voluntarily move the legs. PROM allows a caregiver or therapist to move each joint through its available range to maintain flexibility, prevent contractures, improve circulation, and preserve soft tissue length, all without the patient exerting effort or controlling the movement. By contrast, active movement with full ROM requires the patient to move the joint themselves, which isn’t possible in paraplegia, making PROM the appropriate approach in this scenario.