Functional Movement Screening Test in Female Athletes with Visual Impairments

Abstract

Background: Vision provides 80% of human sensory perception. Hence, loss of the visual sense can cause severe motor problems. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the total score of functional movement screening test (FMSTM) and its components in three groups B1, B2 and B3 in female athletes who are visually impaired. Methods: Seventy-three female athletes with visual acuity at different levels of blindness (B1, B2 and B3) were selected as participants. Functional movement were measured by FMS tests including deep squats, hurdle steps, in-line lunges, shoulder mobility, active straight leg raises, trunk stability push-ups, and rotary stability. Data were analyzed by SPSS software version 22, using ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests at a significant level of P ≤ 0.05. Results: The finding showed that the quality of performing functional movements declined with blindness acuity, but it was not significant statistically in total score of functional movement screen (FMS) test between groups. However, there was a significant difference between B1 with B2 group only at the inline lunge. Conclusions: Therefore, coaches are recommended to include FMSTM in the programs for screening, pre-participation, and assessments of athletes with visual impairments to improve functional movements.