Functional Movement Screen

What is the Functional Movement Screen (FMS)?
The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a cutting-edge tool used to assess an individual’s movement patterns and identify potential limitations, imbalances, or weaknesses. This standardized screening system consists of seven fundamental movement tests that evaluate flexibility, strength, stability, and overall functional movement. By pinpointing problem areas, the FMS allows trained professionals to develop targeted corrective strategies that improve movement efficiency, reduce the risk of injury, and optimize performance.

The FMS is not just for athletes—it is beneficial for anyone looking to enhance their mobility and prevent injuries, from office workers to fitness enthusiasts.

How Does the Functional Movement Screen Work?

The FMS evaluates movement patterns through seven key tests that target different areas of the body. These include:

1. Deep Squat: Assesses full-body mobility and stability.

2. Hurdle Step: Evaluates hip and knee mobility and balance.

3. Inline Lunge: Tests dynamic stability, balance, and hip mobility.

4. Shoulder Mobility: Measures shoulder flexibility and symmetry.

5. Active Straight Leg Raise: Evaluates hamstring and lower back flexibility.

6. Trunk Stability Push-Up: Tests core strength and spinal control.

7. Rotational Stability: Assesses core stability and multi-plane movement control.

Each movement is scored to identify dysfunctions or asymmetries, which can signal underlying issues. Once the screening is complete, the results guide corrective exercises designed to address specific weaknesses or limitations.

Physiologically, the FMS works by:

• Highlighting restricted joint mobility and muscle imbalances that may lead to injury.

• Improving proprioception (awareness of body position) through targeted correction.

• Optimizing neuromuscular coordination to enhance movement patterns and efficiency.

Types of Injuries or Issues the FMS Can Address

The Functional Movement Screen is a proactive tool that can help prevent and address:

• Sports Injuries: Identifies imbalances that could lead to sprains, strains, or overuse injuries.

• Joint Pain: Highlights improper movement patterns that place excessive stress on knees, hips, or shoulders.

• Back Pain: Detects core instability or imbalances that contribute to lower back pain.

• Postural Issues: Addresses asymmetries or poor movement habits that lead to discomfort.

• Rehabilitation Needs: Aids recovery by safely progressing movement patterns after an injury or surgery.

Benefits of the Functional Movement Screen

• Injury Prevention: Identifies weak areas before they become injuries.

• Improved Performance: Enhances movement efficiency and strength, making it ideal for athletes or active individuals.

• Customized Corrective Plans: Results guide the creation of tailored exercise programs for each individual.

• Better Mobility and Flexibility: Corrects dysfunctional movement patterns for pain-free motion.

• Long-Term Health: Promotes sustainable and healthy movement habits.

Who Are Good Candidates for the Functional Movement Screen?

The FMS is suitable for a wide variety of individuals, including:

• Athletes: Looking to optimize performance and prevent sports-related injuries.

• Active Individuals: Wanting to improve flexibility, balance, and strength.

• Post-Injury Patients: Reintegrating into exercise routines after recovery.

• Fitness Enthusiasts: Seeking to refine movement patterns to reach their goals.

• Sedentary Individuals: Hoping to identify and address imbalances caused by inactivity or poor posture.

Why Work with a Skilled Chiropractor for FMS?

A skilled chiropractor enhances the FMS experience by bringing a wealth of anatomical and biomechanical expertise:

• Accurate Assessments: Chiropractors understand the nuances of musculoskeletal health and can spot issues that others may overlook.

• Targeted Corrective Strategies: Based on FMS results, they can create precise, individualized plans that address both immediate concerns and long-term movement goals.

• Integrated Care: Chiropractors can combine the FMS with other treatments like manual therapy, adjustments, and strength training for comprehensive care.

• Injury Mitigation: Their expertise helps ensure that corrective exercises do not cause strain or injury, especially for patients with pre-existing conditions.

Effectiveness of the Functional Movement Screen: Key Statistics

• Research shows that FMS can predict injury risk, with studies highlighting a 47% lower injury rate in individuals who engage in FMS-guided correction programs.

• Athletes who scored below 14 out of 21 on the FMS were 2.74 times more likely to sustain an injury than those with higher scores.

• Corrective exercises based on FMS have been shown to improve movement patterns in 70-80% of individuals within 6-8 weeks.

Take the First Step Toward Better Movement
Whether you’re an athlete aiming to boost performance, an active individual looking to stay injury-free, or someone recovering from a past injury, the Functional Movement Screen is your key to moving better and living pain-free. Schedule your FMS evaluation today and let a skilled chiropractor guide you to your optimal health and mobility.

Schedule Your Functional Movement Screen Now!