At Aim 4 Health we value the importance of movement and doing it right.

To complement our chiropractic skills we are also trained in other fields of diagnosis and managing the movement of the human body. One of these techniques which we highly recommend for our patients, athletes and other health professionals is the;

• Functional Movement Screen (FMS) and,
• Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA)

The Functional Movement Screen

The FMS screen consists of seven tests to evaluate someone’s movement pattern quality. These movement patterns require a balance of mobility and stability and takes around 10 mins to complete the seven tests. The tests are scored in a grading system from 0-3 and measured on the ability to perform the movements. These movements place the individual in positions where weakness and imbalances become more noticeable.

The test and score help identify and measure functional limitations and asymmetries in the body. It may also recognise where there may be inefficient movement reducing one’s performance and risk of injury prior to trauma. Based on the observations and score, a corrective program is designed to improve the functional movement pattern.

This assessment is very useful for those that are not in pain yet have a desire to move and perform better. We also use this screening tool to manage athletes and recommend its use to coaches, teams and individuals due to its strong benefits in identifying abnormal movements to help prevent injuries early, design better training programs and ultimately improve sporting performance.

The Selective Functional Movement Assessment

The SFMA is used primarily on patients and athletes who are in pain. It is diagnostic tool designed to help identify musculoskeletal dysfunction and involves a joint-by-joint approach. There are seven tests in this assessment that are graded to help identify the cause as being either dysfunctional or a stability/motor control issue. Orthopaedic, neurological tests and medical imagery may be required as part of the assessment and diagnosis.