Question

What is a disadvantage of active range of motion (AROM) exercises in physical therapy?

(a) They are too strenuous for most patients.
(b) They can lead to muscle imbalances.
(c) They require expensive equipment.
(d) They are ineffective in improving mobility.

Answer 1

Active range of motion exercises can potentially lead to muscle imbalances if some muscles are overused while others are underutilized.

Step-by-step explanation:

The potential disadvantage of active range of motion (AROM) exercises in physical therapy is that they can sometimes lead to muscle imbalances.

This is because when a patient performs AROM, they are using their own muscular effort, which could potentially overwork some muscles while underutilizing others, especially if they already have a pre-existing imbalance.

Contrary to the other options listed, AROM exercises do not generally require expensive equipment and, when properly executed, are not too strenuous for most patients and are effective in improving mobility.