Use of Traditional and Modified Functional Movement Screening to Predict Balance with Military Load

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Use of Traditional and Modified Functional Movement Screening to Predict Balance with Military Load Eric M. Scudamore 1, Sandra L. Stevens 2, Dana K. Fuller 2, John M. Coons 2, Don W. Morgan2, FACSM 1Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR; 2Middle Tennessee State University, Murfreesboro, TN PURPOSE: To determine if Functional Movement Screen (FMS) or modified Functional Movement Screen (mFMS) item scores predict dynamic balance scores of potential military recruits who wore a 24.2 kg military load. METHODS: Thirty physically-active males and females who displayed anthropometric and physical fitness characteristics typical of military recruits entering basic training completed FMS and mFMS. Torso-loaded balance was assessed as loaded composite reach distance (LCR) and loaded overall stability indices (LOSI) measured using the Y Balance test and Biodex Balance System, respectively. RESULTS: FMS composite scores exhibited the strongest relationship with LCR and participants with higher FMS composite scores (>15) displayed higher LCR values compared to those with lower FMS composite scores (<14). Analysis of FMS subscores using penalized regression indicated that an in-line lunge score of 1 predicted a shorter LCR (Coef for score of 2 = 6.86 (95% CI = 2.88, 10.93)); Coef for score of 3 = 8.36 (95% CI = 3.96, 13.70)) and a shoulder mobility score of 3 predicted better LOSI (Coef = -2.38 (95% CI = -3.56, -0.57)). Loaded shoulder mobility (Coef = -2.11 (95% CI = -4.12, -0.26)) and trunk stability push-up (95% CI = Coef = 1.61 (0.08, 3.13) scores of 3 also predicted better and worse LOSI, respectively. CONCLUSION: The in-line lunge item score from the FMS may be the best predictor of torso-loaded balance and the FMS may be more appropriate than items from a torso-loaded FMS battery in predicting torso-loaded balance in military recruits. Use of the FMS by clinicians may aid in mitigating musculoskeletal injuries in service members, thus minimizing losses that contribute to decreased military readiness.