In the subacute/inpatient phase, which approach is recommended?

• A. Complete rest with no activity
• B. Maximum resistance training
• C. AAROM/AROM and low-resistance strengthening
• D. Isometric-only training

Answer: (C)

In subacute/inpatient rehab, the goal is to restore mobility while progressively loading the healing tissues. Active Assisted ROM (AAROM) and Active ROM (AROM) with low-resistance strengthening provide controlled movement and gentle resistance that allow the patient to use the joint, maintain motion, and rebuild muscle without overloading recovering tissues. This approach helps reduce stiffness, improve range, and promote tissue tolerance as healing continues, setting the stage for a safe progression to higher loads and functional activities.

Completely resting the joint offers no stimulus to restore motion or strength and can lead to deconditioning and stiffness. Pushing to maximum resistance too early risks aggravating the healing tissue and causing setbacks. Isometric-only training might be useful in certain early stages, but in the subacute/inpatient phase the emphasis is on dynamic movement and gradual strengthening to restore function, not just static contractions.