What is commonly evaluated during a patient’s physical therapy assessment?

During a patient’s physical therapy assessment, evaluating joint range of motion is crucial because it helps therapists understand the extent to which a patient can move their joints. This measurement provides insight into any limitations or restrictions a patient may have due to injury, surgery, or chronic conditions. By assessing joint range of motion, a physical therapist can design an effective treatment plan that targets areas needing improvement, ensuring that patients can regain mobility and function safely. This assessment is foundational in establishing baselines for progress throughout the rehabilitation process and in determining appropriate therapeutic interventions.

While factors like scarring, weight, and heart rate might be assessed in different medical contexts, joint range of motion specifically reflects the functional capacity of the musculoskeletal system, making it a core component of physical therapy evaluations.