The Functional Movement Screen is a product of an exercise philosophy known as Functional Movement Systems, developed by physical therapist Gray Cook and grounded in years of innovation, research, and clinical experience.
The Functional Movement Screen is essentially a preventative method used to screen for any potential problems that may cause future injury.
FMS can be compared to a doctor checking your blood pressure at a routine check-up. When you go to your doctor and he takes your blood pressure, it’s not because you already have cardiac issues, but rather to identify something that could be a problem. FMS is used in the same way by screening your movement patterns in order to identify any possible movement dysfunctions that could lead to problems in the future. If your physical therapist notices something is off with your movement, he or she can treat it beforehand before it leads to a torn Achilles or ITB Syndrome.
FMS identifies physical imbalances and weakness through a simple ranking and grading system that assesses movement patterns crucial to normal function. Screening movement identifies functional limitations and asymmetries that may decrease your ability to move correctly and limit your ability to train effectively and without injury. After an easy ten-minute assessment, your FMS will result in a Functional Movement Screen Score, which is linked to a set of corrective exercises used to restore correct movement patterns while building strength. Your score is also monitored by your physical therapist or trainer throughout your sessions, tracking your progress and improvement as you work toward better movement.
The Benefits of FMS
When FMS is used to locate significant movement deficits, there are many benefits that result from prescribed corrective exercises, including:
• Injury Prevention
• Movement Pattern Restoration
• Strength and Conditioning
• Improved Balance
