What is the primary purpose of range of motion measurements?

The primary purpose of range of motion measurements is to evaluate joint flexibility and mobility. This assessment is crucial in physical therapy and rehabilitation settings, as it provides important insights into a patient's functional capabilities and the status of their musculoskeletal system. By measuring how far a joint can move in various directions, practitioners can identify limitations, track progress over time, and tailor rehabilitation programs to meet individual needs. Additionally, assessing range of motion helps to determine whether tightness or stiffness is present, which can lead to pain or dysfunction.

While some of the other options mention aspects related to physical health, they do not specifically pertain to range of motion. Cardiovascular endurance, respiratory function, and muscle mass evaluation focus on different physiological systems and are measured using separate techniques. Thus, these other areas are not relevant to the specific goal of obtaining range of motion measurements.