The Functional Movement Screen (FMS)* captures fundamental movements, motor control within movement patterns, and the competence of basic movements uncomplicated by specific skills.

The FMS will determine the greatest areas of movement deficiency, demonstrate limitations or asymmetries, and eventually correlate these with an outcome. Once we find the greatest asymmetry or deficiency we can prescribe the appropriate exercises for each of our clients.

The original idea of the Functional Movement Screen was to portray movement pattern quality with a simple grading system of movement appraisal. It is not intended to diagnose or measure isolated joint movement. Attempting to measure in isolation does a disservice to the pattern, as the body is too complex to take isolated movements seriously in the initial stages of screening. The Information gathered from the screening has broadened our scope of corrective exercise, training and rehabilitation. The FMS helps us gain timely and valuable feedback for movement correction.

The FMS is comprised of seven movement tests that require a balance of mobility and stability. The patterns used provide observable performance of basic, manipulative and stabilizing movements by placing clients in positions where weaknesses, imbalances, asymmetries, and limitations become noticeable by a trained Strength & Conditioning professional. This allows us to discover which movement patterns are problematic.

The FMS exposes dysfunction or pain, or both, within basic movement patterns. Many people are able to perform a wide range of activities, yet are unable to efficiently execute the movements in the screen. Those who score poorly on the screens are using compensatory movement patterns during regular activities. If these compensations continue, sub-optimal movement patterns are reinforced, leading to poor biomechanics and possibly contributing to future injury.

BioMechanix administers Functional Movement Screening by certified FMS staff. Call us to make an appointment or if you have any inquiries.

* The Functional Movement Screen was founded by Gray Cook, PT, OCS, CSCS, and Lee Burton, PhD, PT, ATC, CSCS. Gray and Lee speak both nationally and internationally on numerous sports medicine topics.