Joint range of motion (ROM)

Joint range of motion (ROM) is a fundamental physiological parameter and clinical endpoint that describes the measurement of the distance and direction a joint can move between its flexed and extended positions. It serves as a critical indicator of musculoskeletal health, functional capacity, and the severity of conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and joint contractures [14]. Unlike a molecular target like a receptor or enzyme, ROM is a macroscopic outcome reflecting the integrated status of cartilage, bone, ligaments, and muscular components [11, 13]. Therapeutic interventions, including pharmacotherapy and physical rehabilitation, aim to restore or maintain ROM by targeting inflammatory pathways or promoting extracellular matrix remodeling [1, 10]. In clinical trials, it is frequently used as a primary biomarker for efficacy monitoring of drugs designed to treat joint-limiting pathologies [7].

Other names

Range of motionROMJoint mobilityJoint flexibilityFlexibility

Not applicable (Clinical outcome/physiological parameter)