At The Chiropractors, we are dedicated to helping patients move better, feel stronger, and live healthier lives. While our primary focus is posture scanning, we recognise the value of tools like Functional Movement Screening (FMS) in identifying and improving movement patterns. In this article, we’ll explore how FMS complements posture-focused care and helps enhance mobility, prevent injury, and support overall wellness.
Written by Charles Sawyer, Founder of The Chiropractors.
As a chiropractor with over 25 years of experience, I combine evidence-based approaches such as posture scanning and rehabilitation to help patients improve their health and quality of life. My B.Sc (Chiropractic) from the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic has equipped me to support patients with personalised care for pain relief, recovery, and improved movement.
What Is Functional Movement Screening?
The Functional Movement Screen (FMS) is a screening tool designed to evaluate seven fundamental movement patterns. These patterns are the building blocks of functional movement and are used to identify functional deficits in areas such as mobility, stability, and coordination.
Unlike diagnostic tests, FMS doesn’t identify specific injuries or conditions. Instead, it’s a tool to assess how the body moves, particularly in extreme positions, to highlight areas that need improvement. While we focus on posture scanning at The Chiropractors, FMS is widely used in sports physical therapy, sports medicine, and by other health care professionals to enhance movement and performance.
The Seven Fundamental Movement Patterns
The foundation of FMS lies in these seven fundamental movement patterns, which are crucial for understanding how well the body performs in daily life and sports:
| Movement Pattern | What It Evaluates |
|---|---|
| Deep Squat | Lower body mobility and trunk stability. |
| Hurdle Step | Balance and coordination of the hip, knee, and ankle. |
| Inline Lunge | Functional strength, balance, and flexibility. |
| Shoulder Mobility | Range and control in the upper extremities. |
| Active Straight-Leg Raise | Hamstring and hip mobility. |
| Trunk Stability Push-Up | Core strength and spinal alignment. |
| Rotary Stability | Coordination and balance during rotational movement. |
Each pattern is scored on a scale of 0–3, with a total possible score of 21. A score of 14 or lower indicates an increased risk of injury (American Journal of Sports Medicine).
Why Posture Scanning and FMS Go Hand in Hand
The Role of Posture Scanning
At The Chiropractors, we use advanced posture scanning technology to evaluate your alignment and identify imbalances in the spine and other areas of the body. Proper posture is critical for maintaining good functional movement, as it sets the foundation for balanced and efficient movement patterns.
Posture scanning helps us:
- Identify areas of strain or tension that may affect mobility or lead to injury.
- Evaluate how your body is positioned both statically and dynamically.
- Develop personalised plans to restore alignment and improve overall health.
While FMS focuses on movement assessments, posture scanning provides a snapshot of your body’s alignment, ensuring that structural issues don’t hinder progress in rehabilitation or sports performance.
Combining FMS Insights with Posture Scanning
When combined, FMS and posture scanning offer a comprehensive view of a patient’s movement and alignment. For example:
- FMS identifies weaknesses in movement patterns, such as a single-leg squat, while posture scanning highlights structural imbalances that may be contributing to poor form.
- Together, these tools help practitioners like myself design targeted interventions, from exercise programmes to manual therapy, to optimise recovery and performance.
Conducting a Functional Movement Assessment
Although we don’t perform FMS at The Chiropractors, we value its role in sports science and rehabilitation. If you’re preparing for an athletic event, recovering from surgery, or managing a chronic condition, FMS can provide sufficient data to guide your treatment plan.
FMS vs Posture Scanning
| Feature | FMS | Posture Scanning |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Dynamic movement patterns | Static and dynamic alignment |
| Purpose | Identify deficits in functional movement | Highlight postural imbalances |
| Use Cases | Sports performance, injury prevention | Pain relief, recovery, and everyday wellness |
| Performed By | Physical therapists, sports medicine professionals | Chiropractors, posture specialists |
Why Choose The Chiropractors for Posture Scanning
At The Chiropractors, we bring decades of expertise and cutting-edge technology to help patients improve posture and movement. Here’s why patients trust us:
- Expertise: With over 25 years of practice, I’ve worked with patients ranging from office workers to athletes.
- Comprehensive Care: We combine posture scanning with proven treatments like manual therapy, spinal adjustments, and targeted exercise interventions.
- Personalised Programmes: Every plan is tailored to your specific needs, whether it’s recovering from an injury, improving your posture, or achieving improved performance.
Rehabilitation and Treatment Strategies
Exercise Interventions
Based on posture scanning results, we recommend exercises that target specific deficits. For example:
- Core stability drills for better trunk stability.
- Hip mobility exercises to address issues with the active straight-leg raise.
- Progressive strength training to prevent functional deficits in the lower body.
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques like spinal manipulation and soft tissue release help address mobility limitations and support better alignment. By targeting the thoracic spine, hips, and other key areas, we can improve range of motion and reduce pain.
Patient Education and Progression
Education is a cornerstone of care at The Chiropractors. I ensure every patient understands their treatment plan, how to perform their exercises correctly, and the importance of gradual progression to achieve long-term results.
Take the First Step Toward Better Movement
Whether you’re intrigued by Functional Movement Screening or ready to address posture-related issues, The Chiropractors is here to help. Our posture scanning services provide the insights you need to improve your health, reduce pain, and move with confidence.
Visit us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve your health and performance goals.
