Which statement is true regarding ROM contraindications?

• A. ROM contraindicated if motion disrupts the healing process
• B. ROM contraindicated if motion is painful
• C. ROM should never be used
• D. ROM contraindicated only for fractures

Answer: (A)

ROM contraindications hinge on whether moving the joint would disrupt healing. The statement that is true is that ROM is contraindicated if motion disrupts the healing process. In the early healing phase after fracture, surgery, or tendon/ligament repair, movement can pull on sutures, destabilize fixation, or reopen a repair, so ROM is avoided until healing progresses. If ROM is performed, it is typically in a gentle, prescribed range to maintain mobility as healing allows. Pain during movement isn’t an automatic reason to stop ROM; mild discomfort can be acceptable and the range can be adjusted. The other options aren’t correct because ROM isn’t never used, nor is it limited only to fractures; there are other healing contexts where ROM should be avoided or carefully modified.