Final answer:
The term for the range of motion performed by the patient themselves is 'active range of motion' (AROM). It is an assessment of joint functionality to create a personalized physical therapy plan.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for the range of motion (ROM) performed by the patient themselves is known as active range of motion (AROM). This involves the patient actively moving a joint through its normal range without assistance. These movements include flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation, which the physical therapist will observe to assess the injury's impact on joint function. For example, a patient may be asked to move their injured shoulder to assess its degree of function following an activity such as kayaking. The resulting evaluation will help the physical therapist create a tailored physical therapy plan to address the specific needs of the patient.
Special movements, such as elevation, depression, pronation, and supination, describe various motions that are typically included in the assessment to understand the complete functionality and limitations of the injured joint.