After completing the initial ROM measurements, what is the next step?

• A. Document the ROM
• B. Establish a zero-degree starting point
• C. Pre-set the goniometer to the estimated ROM
• D. Return the extremity to resting position

Answer: (D)

After you finish taking the initial ROM measurements, bring the limb back to its resting position. Returning to neutral resets the joint, prevents maintaining a stretch or locked position that could bias subsequent readings, and provides a clean baseline for the next measurement or for documenting the results. The zero starting point is set at the beginning of testing, and documentation is typically done after all measurements are completed. Pre-setting the goniometer to an estimated ROM would bias readings, so it isn’t done after the initial measurements.