What is FMS?
The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) was developed by physical therapist Gray Cook and Dr. Lee Burton, PhD to improve communication and objectivity between health care professionals in the assessment of human movement patterns. The FMS is a system that documents movement patterns based on a strict ranking criteria that are key to normal function. By screening these patterns, the FMS readily identifies functional limitations and asymmetries that have been associated with injury and caused decreased performance capacity. The dysfunctional movement patterns appear to limit training and conditioning. The asymmetries result in distorted body awareness and increased risk for injury.The FMS generates the Functional Movement Screen Score, which is used to target problems and track progress. The scoring system aides in the development of the most beneficial corrective exercises to restore mechanically sound movement patterns. The FMS score can be monitored to track progress and to identify those exercises that will be most effective to restore proper movement and build strength in each individual.