AROM
AROM (Active Range of Motion) is a fundamental assessment and treatment technique used in physical therapy and rehabilitation. It refers to how far a patient can move a joint or body part on their own, without assistance. Think of it like checking how well someone can lift their arm or bend their knee using just their own muscle strength. Physical therapists use AROM to track patient progress, plan treatments, and determine when patients are ready to return to normal activities. This is different from PROM (Passive Range of Motion), where the therapist helps move the patient's body part.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted initial AROM assessments for over 200 orthopedic patients
Documented improvements in Active Range of Motion for post-surgical patients
Developed home exercise programs focusing on AROM progression
Typical job title: "Physical Therapists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Physical Therapists
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you integrate AROM assessment findings into complex treatment plans?
Expected Answer: A senior PT should explain how they use AROM measurements to create comprehensive treatment plans, considering factors like patient age, condition, and goals. They should discuss how they modify plans based on progress and setbacks.
Q: How do you train junior staff in proper AROM assessment techniques?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership abilities by explaining their teaching methods, common mistakes to watch for, and how they ensure consistency in measurements across the team.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors might affect AROM measurements and how do you account for them?
Expected Answer: Should discuss various factors like pain, swelling, time of day, and patient effort, and explain how they adjust their assessment approach accordingly.
Q: How do you document AROM progress and communicate it to other healthcare providers?
Expected Answer: Should explain their documentation methods, use of measurement tools, and how they write clear progress notes that other healthcare providers can understand.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the difference between AROM and PROM?
Expected Answer: Should explain that AROM is when patients move on their own, while PROM is when the therapist moves the patient's body part. Should understand when each is appropriate to use.
Q: How do you measure AROM and what tools do you use?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic measurement techniques using tools like goniometers and explain how to record measurements accurately.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic AROM measurement techniques
- Understanding normal range of motion values
- Simple documentation of findings
- Basic exercise instruction
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex case assessment
- Treatment modification based on AROM findings
- Patient education and home program design
- Progress tracking and documentation
Senior (5+ years)
- Clinical program development
- Staff training and supervision
- Complex case management
- Quality assurance oversight
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to demonstrate proper measurement techniques
- Poor understanding of normal range of motion values
- Inadequate documentation skills
- Lack of knowledge about contraindications
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Unlocking Team Potential: Personality Mapping for Dynamic Management
Cracking the Code: How to Source Talent in APAC and EMEA with Cultural Sensitivity
From Passive to Active: Nurturing Candidates Over the Long Haul
