We Find the Root Cause — Not Just Where It Hurts
Every Kinetix treatment plan starts with a comprehensive movement assessment using the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA). Because treating a symptom without understanding the cause is just guessing.
The Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA)
The SFMA is a clinical movement system that systematically evaluates fundamental movement patterns to identify the source of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. It’s not a basic range-of-motion test — it’s a diagnostic algorithm that separates mobility problems from stability problems and follows the dysfunction back to its origin.
Where most assessments stop at the site of complaint, the SFMA follows the chain. Low back pain might trace to restricted hip mobility. Shoulder pain might trace to poor thoracic rotation. The SFMA finds which link is actually broken so treatment targets the right structure.
Every Kinetix patient — regardless of complaint — starts with SFMA. It informs every clinical decision that follows.
What We Assess
Cervical Spine
Neck mobility, rotation, and stability — how upper body dysfunction contributes to shoulder and arm pain.
Thoracic Spine
Mid-back rotation and extension — the most commonly overlooked driver of low back pain and shoulder dysfunction.
Upper Extremity
Shoulder, elbow, and wrist function — mobility and stability in both isolated and integrated positions.
Lumbar Spine & Hips
Lower back mobility and stability, hip rotation, and the relationship between the two.
Multi-Segmental Patterns
Full-body movement quality — how all segments integrate under dynamic load and rotation.
Sport-Specific Movement Evaluation
After SFMA, Dr. Matt overlays sport-specific demands — evaluating how your movement patterns hold up under the actual requirements of your activity.
Golf Movement Analysis
- Full swing sequence from setup to follow-through
- Thoracic and hip rotation range and timing
- Ground force production and weight transfer
- TPI-informed physical screen for swing limitations
Throwing Mechanics Analysis
- Kinetic chain from lower body through release
- Shoulder and elbow joint positioning
- Rotational power generation and core integration
- Deceleration mechanics for injury prevention
Lifting Pattern Analysis
- Hip hinge mechanics for deadlift and Olympic lifts
- Squat depth — ankle, knee, and hip integration
- Overhead stability for press and snatch patterns
- Compensations that create injury risk under load
Gait and Running Analysis
- Foot strike pattern and ground contact mechanics
- Hip extension and glute activation under load
- Upper-lower body coordination efficiency
- Asymmetries that accumulate into overuse injury
Movement Analysis — Common Questions
What is the SFMA and who developed it?
The Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) is a clinical movement evaluation system developed by Gray Cook and colleagues — the same team behind the Functional Movement Screen (FMS). The SFMA is designed for patients presenting with pain and systematically identifies whether movement dysfunction is driven by mobility limitations or motor control deficits, directing treatment to the actual source rather than the site of complaint.
How long does a movement analysis take?
The SFMA portion of the initial visit takes approximately 15–20 minutes. For new patients, the full first appointment — including history, movement screen, treatment, and exercise prescription — runs 45–60 minutes. Follow-up visits are typically 30–45 minutes.
Do I need to be in pain to get a movement analysis?
No. Movement screening is equally valuable for athletes who are pain-free but want to identify limitations before they become injuries. Many Kinetix patients use the movement screen as a performance baseline — understanding where their movement restricts their sport before it causes a breakdown.
What should I wear for a movement analysis?
Wear athletic clothing that allows full range of motion — shorts and a t-shirt are ideal. Bring your typical athletic footwear. If your sport requires specific equipment (golf shoes, cleats, lifting shoes), bring them for the sport-specific portion of the assessment.
Stop Guessing. Start Moving Better.
Book a movement screen and leave your first visit with a clear picture of why you’re hurting and exactly what to do about it.