Functional Movement Evaluation

Proper movement is vital to having healthy joints and preventing injury. A Functional Movement Evaluation is an exam where you are put through a series of movements to identify problem areas.

“Functional” has become a popular buzz word in healthcare. I think it is a bit overused, but it's how we try describe a synergy where all your body systems are running optimally for the demands you put it through. If one system breaks down, another has to pick up the slack. The spine and joints are no different. Said another way… Your body is only as strong as its weakest link.

No one is perfect… 

So no one moves perfectly. The goal is to identify your weak link and show you how to move as best you can with what you've got:

• Stabilize an injury-prone joint
• Strengthen a weak or inhibited muscle
• “Shore-up” a vulnerable back
• Loosen a stiff joint
• Relax a tight muscles
• Mobilize and remodel scar tissue

Movement Requires The Wole Body

We will focus on your pain but will also look to see how your entire body is moving. The movements we look at can depend on your injury, but in general you should be able to:

• Squat properly (like getting in and out of a chair)
• Raise your arms above your head
• Be able to maintain an abdominal brace (flex your abs) and breathe at the same time
• Lunge without losing balance
• And most important, move with as minimal pain as possible!

The Functional Movement Evaluation will also give a baseline for treatment goal setting and outcome measurements.  Remember, we are not looking for perfect. We are looking to create a positive change to reduce pain and prevent reinjury.