The The Observed Pre and Post-Intervention Changes to Movement Potentiation Scale (MPS) Scores and How That Impacts Pain, Balance & Coordination - A Case Series

Abstract

Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries are a major leading burden of disease worldwide, making up 77% of all injury healthcare visits, totaling around 65.8 million people annually in the US alone. There is a clear demand to optimize conservative treatment strategies for improved clinical outcomes. Three Case Reports were conducted with three different female participants (of whom each presented with different primary complaints). Each participant was scored pre and post-intervention using the Movement Potentiation Scale™ (MPS), designed by Williams & Horschig (2022). Additionally, a Visual Analog Pain Scale (VAS) was used to determine each participant’s pain levels, and a comprehensive history was conducted prior to the commencement of the program. The MPS model consists of 6 fundamental movement challenges worth a total value of 26 points. Following the MPS assessment, each participant underwent a consecutive 5-day Functional Movement Training Program. The program prioritized movement Quality over Quantity, an inherent characteristic of Movement Therapy, focusing on proprioception, balance, coordination, and proper biomechanics under tolerable loads. Primary provocative movements and day-to-day activities were identified. Each participant was educated about spinal hygiene, postural stress, and safe movement strategies such as hip hinging, squats, lifting overhead, and the coordination of the core and bracing. On day 6, post-intervention data was collected. Each participant displayed a drastic improvement in pain and MPS score, reflecting increased Movement Quality and joint stability. Improvements in strength, neural control, and connective tissue integrity were observed with reduced nociception and inflammation. Participant 1, awaiting surgery for ongoing chronic Low Back Pain (LBP), scored a low MPS score of 5/26 on day 1. Post-intervention on Day 6, she presented with 0/10 pain and a 15/26 MPS score. It was noted that “for the first time in years,” she had pain-free sleep and zero pain. Participant 2 entered the study with a low MPS score of 7/26 and chronic ongoing shoulder pain and paresthesia down the left arm. On day 6, she presented with 0/10 pain, no paresthesia, and an improved 14/26 MPS score. Participant 3 presented an MPS score of 8/26 and a primary complaint of Urinary Incontinence (UI). Referrals were made from her doctor (GP) to multiple physiotherapists, including postpartum specialists. However, they were unsuccessful. On day 6, she presented an improved MPS score of 18/26 with a 10-day follow-up of zero urinary incontinence issues. This case series is a small step in the right direction; however, further high-caliber studies are required to add further validation to the utility of The MPS Model and Movement Quality focused Rehabilitation – Functional Movement Therapy.