How do we identify movement imbalances, and when do we know they have been adequately addressed? The Functional Movement Screen is the most innovative and reliable system available worldwide for evaluating the quality of movement patterns. It consist of 7 fundamental movement patterns which were designed to place an athlete in positions where any weaknesses or imbalances in mobility, stability or motor control, become noticeable to a certified FMS professional, who scores each tests to a strict criteria.

The FMS therefore serves as a quantifiable method for holistic appraisal of basic human movement, and is based on sound fundamental principles. It identifies individual specific movement limitations and asymmetries, which might limit an athlete's potential for gaining from functional training and conditioning, as well as increase his/her risk of injury. These movement imbalances or limitations can then be addressed with individualized corrective solutions as directed by the Functional Movement System.

Although the FMS is designed for individuals who do not suffer from current pain or injury, it can also serve to monitor post-injury functionality. Since pain, inflammation, swelling, joint effusion and immobility all compromises neuromuscular coordination and control, injuries result in altered movement patterns which often remain intact long after pain is gone. Proper rehabilitation therefore need to also address the affected movement pattern/s to ensure full functionality and a safe return to movement or sporting action.

For those who struggle with a chronic pain or who present with pain during the FMS, we use the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA). The SFMA is a movement based diagnostic system which helps the clinician to identify meaningful impairments in fundamental movement patterns. Working from the concept of regional interdependence, the SFMA focuses correctional work at dysfunctional non-painful movements, to remove the cause which led to the manifestation of pain in another region. 

Both the FMS and SFMA are backed by a detailed hierarchical system of corrective solutions, which are based on the natural developmental path of motor learning. This means that progress will always be determined by the ability of an individual to complete a fundamental movement with control, before advancing to a more complex movement skill. That is how nature works, and therefore the only way to achieve sustainable movement success.