The Benefits of an Annual Physical Therapy Exam Using the Selective Functional Movement Screen (SFMA)

By: Katy Shumbo, PT, DPT, ATC

Physical therapy is often seen as something people turn to after an injury or pain arises. But what if physical therapy could be more proactive, helping to identify potential issues before they become full-blown problems? That's where an annual physical therapy exam, specifically using the Selective Functional Movement Screen (SFMA), can make a significant difference in your overall health and mobility.

What is the Selective Functional Movement Screen (SFMA)?

The SFMA is a tool used by physical therapists to evaluate the way the body moves together as a whole. Unlike traditional screenings that focus on isolated joint or muscle function, the SFMA assesses how multiple body parts work together during tasks that are performed daily. The goal is to identify abnormal patterns or weaknesses that could contribute to pain or injury. The SFMA is typically broken down into two main components:

1. A series of 7 specific movement patterns: These movements test your body’s ability to perform tasks such as squatting, reaching, and bending.

2. A deep dive into movement dysfunctions: Once the screening reveals any issues, the therapist can then determine where the problem stems from -  limited joint range of motion, stability issue (e.g., weak muscles), or motor control dysfunction (e.g., poor coordination or movement patterns issues).

Why Get an Annual SFMA? 

1. Early Detection of Dysfunction

2. Injury Prevention

3. Improved Performance

4. Personalized Treatment

5. Long-Term Mobility

How Can A Step Ahead Physical Therapy Help You?

An annual physical therapy exam with the SFMA is a proactive step in maintaining long-term health, preventing injury, and improving overall movement. It's a simple way to catch problems early and ensure your body stays in top shape. If you haven’t had an SFMA yet, consider calling our clinic at (770) 998-6636 to schedule one today with our trained clinicians and invest in your future mobility!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katy joined A Step Ahead Physical Therapy in 2024 and has been a physical therapist since graduating from Emory University with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2018. She completed her orthopedic residency and went on to obtain her orthopedic specialty certification (OCS) in 2019. As a PT, Katy enjoys working with youth athletes, runners, and generally active older adults. She enjoys treating an array of orthopedic conditions and TMJ disorders.