ROM (Range of Motion)
ROM (Range of Motion) is a fundamental concept in physical therapy that measures how far a person can move or stretch a joint, like their knee, shoulder, or ankle. It's similar to measuring how wide you can open a door - there's a minimum and maximum point. Physical therapy professionals use ROM assessments to track patient progress, plan treatments, and document recovery after injuries or surgeries. When you see this term in resumes or job descriptions, it usually refers to a therapist's ability to evaluate and improve patients' joint movements.
Examples in Resumes
Performed daily ROM assessments for post-surgical patients
Developed treatment plans focusing on improving Range of Motion in stroke patients
Documented and tracked ROM progress for 40+ orthopedic patients weekly
Typical job title: "Physical Therapists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Physical Therapists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you approach complex ROM cases where traditional assessment methods aren't effective?
Expected Answer: A senior therapist should discuss adapting assessment techniques for different patient conditions, using specialized tools, and creating modified measurement approaches while maintaining accuracy and patient comfort.
Q: How do you train junior staff in proper ROM assessment techniques?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership abilities by explaining their teaching methodology, common mistakes to watch for, and how they ensure consistency in measurements across the team.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when establishing ROM goals for patients?
Expected Answer: Should discuss patient age, condition, lifestyle needs, and occupation as factors in setting realistic goals, while explaining how they adjust treatment plans based on progress.
Q: How do you document ROM progress and communicate it to other healthcare providers?
Expected Answer: Should explain their method of tracking measurements, using standardized documentation, and effectively communicating progress to doctors and other healthcare team members.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic tools used for measuring ROM?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe common measurement tools like goniometers, explain basic measurement techniques, and demonstrate understanding of normal ROM ranges for major joints.
Q: What's the difference between active and passive ROM?
Expected Answer: Should explain that active ROM is when patients move their joint themselves, while passive ROM is when the therapist moves it for them, and when each type is appropriate.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic ROM measurement techniques
- Standard documentation practices
- Simple exercise program design
- Basic patient assessment skills
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex case assessment
- Treatment modification based on ROM progress
- Patient education techniques
- Detailed progress tracking
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced treatment planning
- Staff training and supervision
- Complex case management
- Program development
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to demonstrate proper use of measurement tools
- Poor documentation practices
- Lack of knowledge about normal ROM ranges
- Inconsistent measurement techniques
- No understanding of contraindications
Related Terms
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