Functional Movement Screen
Updated: Apr 14
Measurements possible from now on!
The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a screening tool used in the field of sports medicine and physical therapy to evaluate an individual's movement patterns and identify any potential imbalances or limitations. It is designed to assess fundamental movement patterns that are essential for normal daily activities as well as sports performance.
The FMS consists of a series of seven fundamental movement tests that evaluate mobility, stability, and symmetry of movement. These tests are:
Deep Squat: Assesses bilateral mobility and stability of the hips, knees, and ankles, as well as core stability.
Hurdle Step: Evaluates bilateral mobility and stability of the hips, knees, and ankles during a stepping motion.
Inline Lunge: Assesses unilateral mobility and stability of the hips, knees, and ankles, as well as core stability.
Shoulder Mobility: Evaluates bilateral mobility and stability of the shoulders and thoracic spine.
Active Straight Leg Raise: Assesses hamstring and hip mobility while maintaining core stability.
Trunk Stability Push-Up: Evaluates core stability and upper body strength.
Rotary Stability: Assesses multi-planar stability and mobility of the core and shoulders.
Each test is scored on a scale of 0 to 3, with 3 indicating optimal movement and 0 indicating painor inability to perform the movement. The scores of the individual tests are then combined to provide an overall FMS score.
The primary purpose of the Functional Movement Screen is to identify any movement dysfunctions or imbalances that could increase the risk of injury or affect performance. It helps professionals such as physical therapists, athletic trainers, and strength and conditioning specialists to develop appropriate exercise programs and corrective strategies tailored to an individual's specific needs.
It's worth noting that the FMS is not a diagnostic tool but rather a screening tool. If any issues or limitations are identified during the screening, further assessment and evaluation may be necessary to determine the underlying causes and develop an appropriate treatment plan. We can refer you in case of need to get a medical assessment.
Further information about FMS can be found here: Functional Movement Systems.
Are you interested in this screening battery? Contact us.
Authors:
Anneke und Oliver Penny