Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a system used to evaluate and assess movement patterns and asymmetries in the human body. It is a screening tool that aims to identify limitations, imbalances, and dysfunctions that may increase the risk of injury or hinder optimal performance.

How does it work?

The FMS consists of a series of seven fundamental movement patterns that are assessed through specific tests that evaluates mobility and stability of the hips, knees, and ankles while performing a deep squat movement; assesses stability, balance, and mobility of the hips, knees, and ankles during stepping over a hurdle; evaluates mobility and stability of the hips and knees during a forward lunge movement; assesses the range of motion, stability, and symmetry of the shoulders; evaluates hip mobility, hamstring flexibility, and core stability while performing a straight leg raise; assesses core stability and upper body strength and control during a push-up movement, and evaluates core stability, proprioception, and rotational control of the body.

How will it help us?

The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) can be used in various contexts and for different purposes. Here are some indications for using the FMS:

Injury Prevention:

The FMS can help identify movement dysfunctions and imbalances that may increase the risk of injury. By assessing movement patterns and detecting limitations or asymmetries, the FMS can guide the development of targeted corrective exercises and interventions to address these issues and reduce the likelihood of future injuries.

Performance Enhancement:

Athletes and individuals looking to improve their performance can benefit from the FMS. By identifying movement inefficiencies or asymmetries, the FMS can help develop personalized training programs that target specific areas for improvement, leading to better movement quality, increased strength, and enhanced athletic performance.

Pre-Participation Screening:

The FMS can be used as a pre-participation screening tool for sports teams or fitness programs. It provides valuable information about an individual's movement abilities and limitations, helping coaches and trainers tailor training programs, modify exercises, or provide appropriate modifications to ensure safe participation.

Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy:

Physical therapists and rehabilitation professionals can utilize the FMS as part of their assessment process. It helps identify movement dysfunctions and imbalances that may contribute to an individual's injury or impair their recovery. By incorporating FMS findings into treatment planning, therapists can design targeted rehabilitation programs to address these limitations and promote optimal movement patterns.

Movement Assessment and Monitoring:

The FMS can be used to assess movement patterns and track changes over time. By periodically re-evaluating an individual's FMS scores, trainers, coaches, and healthcare professionals can monitor progress, identify improvements, or detect any new movement limitations that may arise.

What are FMS’s benefits?

At Aspire, we utilize the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) offers several benefits for individuals of various age groups and athletes such as:

Identification of Movement Dysfunctions:

The FMS helps identify movement dysfunctions, limitations, and imbalances. Assessing fundamental movement patterns can pinpoint areas of weakness, instability, or asymmetry that may contribute to injury risk or performance limitations.

Injury Risk Reduction:

By identifying movement dysfunctions and imbalances, the FMS enables the development of targeted corrective exercises and interventions. Addressing these issues can help reduce the risk of future injuries by improving movement quality, enhancing stability, and reducing compensatory movement patterns.

Performance Enhancement:

Athletes and individuals can benefit from the FMS by optimizing their movement patterns and addressing limitations. By focusing on correcting movement dysfunctions, individuals can improve their overall movement quality, biomechanics, and functional performance, leading to enhanced athletic abilities and improved physical performance.

Personalized Training Programs:

The FMS provides a baseline assessment of an individual's movement abilities and limitations. This information can be used to develop personalized training programs that target specific areas for improvement. By tailoring exercises and interventions based on the FMS results, trainers and coaches can create effective and individualized training regimens.

Monitoring Progress:

The FMS can be used as a tool to monitor progress and track changes over time. By periodically re-evaluating an individual's FMS scores, trainers, coaches, and healthcare professionals can assess improvements in movement quality, identify areas that still require attention, and adjust training programs accordingly.

Collaboration among Healthcare Professionals:

The FMS facilitates collaboration between our physical therapists, strength and conditioning coaches, and sports medicine practitioners. By using a standardized movement assessment, we communicate and share information effectively, leading to more comprehensive care and improved outcomes for individuals.

Pre-Participation Screening:

The FMS can be utilized as a pre-participation screening tool for sports teams, fitness programs, or training camps. It provides valuable information about an individual's movement abilities and limitations, allowing coaches and trainers to modify exercises, provide appropriate modifications, or tailor training programs to ensure safe participation.

Overall, the FMS offers a systematic approach to movement assessment, enabling individuals to address movement dysfunctions, reduce the risk of injuries, enhance performance, and personalize training programs. It serves as a valuable tool for promoting optimal movement patterns and supporting individuals in achieving their fitness and performance goals.

It's important to note that the FMS is a screening tool and not a diagnostic tool. If any pain or significant limitations are identified during the screening, it is recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for a more thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.