SELECTIVE FUNCTIONAL MOVEMENT ASSESSMENT (SFMA)

The SFMA can provide many benefits as it not only addresses the joints but the entire body. It can help to assess and classify movement patterns in order to appropriately direct exercise and manual therapy treatments. By correcting dysfunctional movement patterns throughout the body, it can help prevent any future pain or injuries. It allows therapists to identify and treat regions in the body that lack mobility or stability, allowing for a proper treatment to restore pain-free function and movement.

The treatment through SFMA begins by thoroughly observing and assessing movement patterns throughout the entire body, including movements of the neck, arms, shoulders, forward bend, backward bend, trunk rotation, single leg balance and a deep squat. Each of these movements is classified as either functional or dysfunctional and painful or non-painful.  Then these selected movement patterns are broken down further into simpler movements to identify what may be the cause of movement deficiency, e.g. motor control and stability problems, joint restrictions or soft tissue tightness.

This assessment is performed alongside other range of motion measurements, strength testing and special tests. Once the full assessment is complete, the therapist can then quickly and efficiently design a treatment plan to address the identified dysfunctions. Throughout the rehab process, your therapist will frequently assess your movement patterns using the SFMA to monitor progress. As the dysfunctional movement patterns improve, so will your pain.