What sequence of ROM progression is used to limit tendon tension?

What sequence of ROM progression is used to limit tendon tension?

• A. Immobilize - PROM - AROM
• B. PROM - Immobilize - AROM
• C. AROM - PROM - Immobilize
• D. Immobilize only

Answer: (A)

When healing a repaired or injured tendon, you protect the tendon first to avoid placing load on it too soon. Immobilization removes movement and thus minimizes tendon tension during the critical early phase. Once the initial healing window has passed, you begin with passive range of motion. This moves the joint through its arc without activating the muscles, so the tendon experiences movement with minimal active tension, helping maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness while still protecting the repair. Finally, once healing has progressed and the tissue can tolerate load, you introduce active range of motion to restore strength and function. This sequence—immobilization, then passive ROM, then active ROM—best minimizes tendon tension while supporting gradual recovery.

When healing a repaired or injured tendon, you protect the tendon first to avoid placing load on it too soon. Immobilization removes movement and thus minimizes tendon tension during the critical early phase. Once the initial healing window has passed, you begin with passive range of motion. This moves the joint through its arc without activating the muscles, so the tendon experiences movement with minimal active tension, helping maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness while still protecting the repair. Finally, once healing has progressed and the tissue can tolerate load, you introduce active range of motion to restore strength and function. This sequence—immobilization, then passive ROM, then active ROM—best minimizes tendon tension while supporting gradual recovery.