Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CHT Practice Questions and Study Guide.

The primary purpose of using a range of motion (ROM) chart in therapy is to assess and document joint mobility. ROM charts provide a standardized method for measuring how far a joint can move through its normal range in various directions, such as flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction. This information is crucial for therapists to evaluate the functional capacity of a patient's joints, identify limitations or restrictions in movement, and develop appropriate treatment plans aimed at improving joint mobility.

Recording ROM data over time allows therapists to track progress, adjust rehabilitation programs, and provide objective evidence of improvement. Additionally, it helps in setting realistic goals for patients based on their individual capabilities. By documenting joint mobility accurately, therapists can communicate effectively with other healthcare professionals regarding a patient's status and response to treatment.

The other options, though related to therapy, focus on different aspects of patient assessment. Measuring pain levels encompasses a subjective evaluation of discomfort, which is important but not the main purpose of a ROM chart. Evaluating muscle strength and identifying nerve function are also critical components of rehabilitation assessments but do not pertain specifically to documenting joint mobility.