SCRx June Spotlight: Movement Screening

Why Movement Screening Matters 

Many injuries do not occur because of a single event. Instead, they often develop over time due to a combination of factors, including: 

• Reduced mobility 

• Strength imbalances 

• Poor movement control 

• Training errors 

• Reduced physical capacity 

By identifying these factors early, we can help you make informed decisions about your training, exercise, and rehabilitation before problems arise. 

Our movement screening process provides an objective snapshot of your current physical function, allowing us to identify areas that may be limiting performance or increasing injury risk.

What Does the Assessment Involve? 

Every movement screen lasts approximately 60 minutes and is completed by one of our experienced physiotherapists. 

During the assessment, we evaluate: 

1. Joint Mobility 

Adequate mobility is essential for efficient movement and optimal performance. 

We assess key joints throughout the body, including: 

• Ankles 

• Hips 

• Thoracic spine 

• Shoulders 

Limitations in mobility can influence movement patterns and may increase stress on other structures throughout the body. 

2. Balance and Movement Control 

The ability to control movement effectively is fundamental for both performance and injury prevention. 

Our testing assesses: 

• Single-leg balance 

• Dynamic stability 

• Coordination 

• Neuromuscular control 

These qualities are particularly important for running, field sports, racket sports and everyday physical activity. 

3. Unilateral Strength 

Most sporting activities and many daily tasks occur predominantly on one leg at a time. 

We assess: 

• Single leg strength 

• Side-to-side differences 

• Lower limb control 

• Functional strength capacity 

Identifying significant asymmetries can help guide training and rehabilitation programmes. 

4. Functional Movement Capacity 

Your ability to produce and tolerate force is a key factor in both performance and resilience. 

We assess a range of functional tasks to understand how your body performs under load and identify areas that may require further development. 

Athletic Movement Screen 

Designed For: 

• Runners 

• Triathletes 

• Cyclists 

• Team sport athletes 

• CrossFit athletes 

• Gym enthusiasts 

• Youth athletes 

The Athletic Movement Screen is designed to provide sport-specific insights into movement quality and physical performance. Our physiotherapists will interpret your results within the context of your chosen sport, helping identify: 

• Potential risk factors for injury 

• Movement limitations 

• Strength deficits 

• Areas that may impact performance 

• Opportunities to optimise training 

The aim is not simply to identify weaknesses but to provide actionable recommendations that help you perform at your best. 

Health MOT 

Designed For: 

• Active adults 

• Recreational exercisers 

• Walking and hiking enthusiasts 

• Gym members 

• Individuals looking to age well 

• Anyone wanting to stay active and independent 

The Health MOT focuses on maintaining long-term physical health and function. As we age, maintaining strength, mobility and balance becomes increasingly important for preserving independence and reducing injury risk. The Health MOT helps identify areas that may benefit from targeted intervention before they begin affecting your quality of life or ability to participate in the activities you enjoy.

Who Should Consider Movement Screening? 

Movement screening can benefit: 

• Athletes returning from injury 

• Individuals preparing for an event 

• Runners increasing training volume 

• People experiencing recurring niggles 

• Active adults wanting to stay healthy 

• Anyone interested in improving how they move 

You do not need to be injured to benefit from testing. 

Many of our clients use movement screening proactively to identify potential issues before they become significant problems.