What are the best functional assessment tools for different injury types?

1 Movement Screen

One of the most widely used functional assessment tools is the Functional Movement Screen (FMS). The FMS is a series of seven tests that evaluate your basic movement patterns, such as squatting, lunging, pushing, and pulling. The FMS scores each test on a scale of 0 to 3, based on the quality and range of motion of your movement. A low score indicates a movement dysfunction or limitation that may increase your risk of injury. The FMS can help you identify which areas of your body need more mobility, stability, or strength training.

4 Endurance Test

A fourth functional assessment tool is the Functional Endurance Assessment (FEA). The FEA is a timed test that evaluates your aerobic and anaerobic capacity. The FEA consists of two parts: the 3-minute step test and the 20-meter shuttle run test. The 3-minute step test measures your heart rate recovery after stepping up and down on a platform for 3 minutes. The 20-meter shuttle run test measures your maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) by running back and forth between two lines 20 meters apart at increasing speeds. A low score on either of these tests indicates poor endurance or fitness level that may affect your stamina or recovery. The FEA can help you assess your cardiovascular and metabolic health and optimize your training intensity and duration.

5 Mobility Test

A fifth functional assessment tool is the Functional Range of Motion Assessment (FRA). The FRA is a collection of joint-specific tests that measure your active and passive mobility. The FRA includes tests for your neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle joints. Each test involves moving your joint through its full range of motion in different directions and holding the end position for a few seconds. You compare your results to the normal or optimal values for each joint and note any restrictions or asymmetries. A low score on any of these tests indicates a mobility impairment or dysfunction that may limit your movement quality or cause pain. The FRA can help you identify which joints need more flexibility, mobility, or joint capsule work.

6 Stability Test

A sixth and final functional assessment tool is the Functional Core Stability Assessment (FCSA). The FCSA is a series of core-specific tests that evaluate your ability to stabilize your spine and pelvis during dynamic movements. The FCSA includes tests such as the plank, the side plank, the bird dog, the dead bug, and the curl-up. Each test involves holding a static or dynamic position for a certain amount of time or repetitions while maintaining a neutral spine and pelvis alignment. You score each test based on the quality and duration of your performance. A low score on any of these tests indicates a core weakness or instability that may compromise your posture or increase your risk of low back pain. The FCSA can help you improve your core strength and endurance and enhance your functional movement efficiency.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?