What is the primary goal of the inflammatory phase of rehabilitation?

• A. Control and clean-up injured tissues.
• B. Restore full ROM, strength, endurance, speed, power, and begin skill exercises.
• C. Promote scar remodeling and long-term strength.
• D. Eliminate all pain immediately.

Answer: (A)

The main aim in the inflammatory phase is to control inflammation and clean up damaged tissue. In this early stage, rehab focuses on limiting swelling and pain, protecting the injured area, and removing debris and damaged cells so the healing process can proceed. Gentle movement and protective strategies help preserve joint mobility and prevent secondary stiffness without pushing into heavy loading or aggressive stretching, which could worsen inflammation. This sets the stage for the later phases, where restoration of full range of motion, strength, and skill training become priorities, and scar remodeling and long-term strength are developed. Pain is managed but not expected to disappear immediately, since some inflammatory pain is a normal part of the early healing process.