The Effect of Neuromuscular Training on Functional Movement Screen Scores in Injury-Prone Military Athletes

Abstract

Background Pre-participation examinations are the standard approach for assessing poor movement quality that would increase musculoskeletal injury risk. On the other hand, the neuromuscular control plays a significant role in the prevention of injury and rehabilitation. The main purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an 8-week neuromuscular training on functional movement screen (FMS) in injury-prone military athletes. Methods In the present quasi-experimental study, forty injury-prone male military athlete were identified by functional movement Screen. Functional Movement screen were assessed before and after the 8-week program. Participants were placed into 1 of the 2 groups: intervention (n = 20) and control (n = 20). The intervention group was required to complete a neuromuscular training program that met 3 times per week for 8-week. Data analysis was done using the independent t-test and analysis of covariance at the significant level of p < 0.05. Results The comparison of total FMS score indicated a significant difference (P < 0.05 and effect size = 0.83) between intervention (17.75 ± 1.55) and control (11 ± 1.55) groups. A significant improvement in mobility (p < 0.05 and effect size = 0.39), stability (p < 0.05 and effect size = 0.77) and advanced movement (p < 0.05 and effect size = 0.75) were also found. Conclusion An 8-week neuromuscular training program enhances functional movement screen in military athletes. It seems that this training program can minimize injury risk in injury-prone individuals.

Assessment of the impact of functional training on the result of the Functional Movement Screen tests in footballers

“…An additional training programme was started immediately after the first stage of the FMS testing in early November Each subject in group A, who scored ≤ 2 on a particular test, performed a series of exercises that were designed to maximally enhance the traits they scored worst on the FMS test. It was based on previous similar research [23,24,25,26], as well as information from the official FMS website [27].…”

“…The programme consisted of elements aiming to: improve the quality of movement and flexibility of tissues, increase motor control in both statics and dynamics, and strengthen the stability of individual body segments, using elements of stabilisation training, stretching, or myofascial relaxation using a Foam roller, massage ball, or floss band [23,[24][25][26][27].…”