Passive ROM is determined by which structures?

• A. Joints and nerves
• B. tissues and ligaments
• C. Muscles only
• D. Bones

Answer: (B)

Passive ROM reflects how far a joint can be moved when no muscles are actively contracting. The main restraints are non-contractile soft tissues surrounding the joint, especially ligaments and the joint capsule (plus other surrounding connective tissues). These structures are taut and determine the end range of movement, so they largely set how far you can move the joint passively. Bones provide the overall architecture, but the soft-tissue restraints are the primary limit in this context. Nerves and muscles aren’t the main mechanical barriers for passive movement, which is why tissues and ligaments best fit this question.