In which type of movement does the patient perform actions while muscles relax and contract voluntarily?

In the context of physical therapy, the correct choice refers to a type of movement where the patient uses their own muscles to perform actions, thereby voluntarily contracting and relaxing those muscles. This process is referred to as active range of motion.

Active range of motion exercises are essential for improving strength, flexibility, and coordination. They enable patients to maintain or improve their range of motion by actively engaging their muscles, which promotes circulation and joint health. The independence of the patient in this type of activity allows for better functional outcomes and a greater sense of control over their recovery process.

On the other hand, the other choices do not involve the patient engaging their muscles in such an active manner. Passive range of motion involves a therapist or an external force moving the patient’s joints without their muscle effort; mobilization refers to the manual manipulation of joints and soft tissues, usually conducted by a trained therapist; and stretching generally means elongating muscles or tendons but does not necessarily imply the active engagement of the patient's own muscle contractions. Thus, the active involvement in the movement distinguishes it clearly as active range of motion.