Range of motion 

is the capability of a joint to go through its complete

spectrum of movements.

Range of motion of a joint can be passive or active.

Passive range of motion can be defined as the range of motion that is

achieved when an outside force (such as a therapist) causes movement of
a joint and is usually the maximum range of motion that a joint can move.

Active range of motion is the range of motion that can be achieved when
opposing muscles contract and relax, resulting in joint movement. For
example, the active range of motion to allow the elbow to bend requires the
biceps to contract while the triceps muscle relaxes. Active range of motion
is usually less than passive range of motion.

Range of motion therapy is beneficial in healing and in recovery from soft

tissue and joint lesions, maintaining existing joint and soft tissue mobility,
minimizing the effects of contracture formation, assisting neuromuscular
reeducation, and enhancing synovial movement.

Observation of the cat's gait can help determine gross deficits in range of
motion. However, the evaluation of the quality of the resistance of the joint
as the end point of a passive movement of the joint provides information
about the complete range of motion for that joint