Functional Muscle Assessment (FMA) - Calgary Downtown Integrative Health Group

Recurrent joint problems in the back, arms and legs are most often a result of improper movement patterns. Assessing these patterns requires extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and exercise applications. Our movement specialist assesses and prescribes customized stretch and strength exercises to treat and prevent neuromusculoskeletal injuries.

What is Functional Muscle Assessment (FMA)?

Functional Muscle Assessment is a tool used to assess the movement patterns of the spine and extremities FMA is a tool used to assess the movement patterns of the spine and extremities. The goal is to find the relationship between abnormal movement (dysfunction) and a person's pain.

Many different types of tissue cause pain. Muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, capsule and bone may all be involved to some degree. The different movement patterns along with the hands-on examination will determine the involved tissue. It is necessary to make this "tissue specific diagnosis" because different tissues respond to different treatment protocols.

What comprises a FMA?

Our rehabilitation specialist will watch you perform a number of activities in order to determine if a dysfunction is the cause of your pain. The assessment includes:

Posture
Gait analysis
Muscle weakness, strength and tightness
Balance and coordination
Neurological testing
Orthopedic testing
Static and dynamic palpation
Stabilizer testing

Who should have a FMA?

Anyone who is experiencing muscle and/or joint pain that has remained unresolved for more than six weeks.

How long does the assessment take?

Generally an assessment will take 30 to 40 minutes for the testing and another 20 minutes to explain the results and discuss the rehabilitation program.

What do I do after the assessment?

Functional Muscle Assessment It is recommended that you work with our rehabilitation specialist to ensure you are doing the recommended exercises properly. The program usually involves a combination of exercises using low-tech equipment such as fitness balls and mats but may also incorporate use of small handheld weights.

How long will the rehabilitation program last?

The length of your healing time will depend on the length of time you've had the injury, your general state of health, whether you've injured this area before and your willingness to do the recommended exercises. The rehabilitation specialist will re-evaluate you on a regular basis and let you know how you are progressing and to help you set achievable goals.

We welcome you to visit our convenient Calgary downtown location.