FMS Functional Movement Screen
One of the questions I get asked most frequently about the Functional Movement Screen is how I implement it into my evaluation procedure and what type of system I use based on the results. Well, I decided to give everyone an inside peek at my thought process whenever I have a new client coming in for the FMS. My perspective will be from a Sports Medicine point of view, but it can apply to any fitness professional. The thought process of gathering information is what you want to duplicate. The FMS is a system for movement evaluation, but it is also a process for gathering information about what your client should and should not do when exercising.For those unfamiliar with the FMS, here is a brief overview. The (FMS) Functional Movement Screen is exactly what is implies; a screening for movement. It was created by Gray Cook, PT and Lee Burton, Phd. to look deeper into movement patterns, particularly dysfunctional movement of the body. It consists of seven movements; Deep Squat, Hurdle Step, In-line lunge, Shoulder Mobility, Active Straight Leg Raise, Trunk Stability Push-up, Rotary Stability. There is a scoring system of a possible 21 point perfect screen. These seven tests are designed to be used on a client who is NOT in pain. If someone experiences pain during a screening, it should be discontinued and further evaluation by a health professional is recommended to diagnose the cause. Why should the screening be stopped with pain? Movement patterns will be altered because a patient will compensate for pain and results may be skewed. Health professionals can utilize a more detailed evaluation to look at dysfunctional movement via the (SFMA) Selective Functional Movement Assessment, created by Gray Cook, Phil Plisky and Kyle Kiesel. This assessment is used to discover where the non-painful dysfunctional movement pattern exists that is causing the pain. You can visit www.functionalmovement.com to locate a healthcare provider in your area who is trained in the SFMA. Working directly with a healthcare professional who understands the primary role of movement is in the best interest of your client. They understand the ‘lingo’ and also work directly with you as a fitness professional in restoring proper function.
