The human movement system is a well–orchestrated system of interrelated and interdependent myofascial, neuromuscular and articular components. The functional integration of each system allows for optimal neuromuscular efficiency. Muscles function synergistically in force-couple relationships to produce force, reduce force and dynamically stabilize the entire Human Movement System. Optimal alignment and functioning of each component of the HMS depends on the structural and functional integrity of each of its interdependent systems. This structural alignment is Posture.
Posture is the position from which movement begins and ends .Movement is the means by which we are able to perform all activities of daily living exercise and sports .Our ability to move is one of the most important aspects of our existence as it allowed our ancestors to carry out their primary roles as gatherers and hunters. Movement is a key to optimal living and quality of life for all people that extends beyond health to every person’s ability to participate in and contribute to society today, however, we live in a society where the amount we move is directly driven by our jobs and activities of daily living. This has resulted in poor movement quality, increased orthopedic injuries and the development of a variety of diseases and disabilities. The complex needs of society, which for many individuals is a sedentary lifestyle, is a signal for the physical therapy profession to engage with consumers to reduce preventable health care costs and overcome barriers to participation in society. This will ensure the successful and prosperous existence of society. It is therefore imperative that the rehab and fitness professional be able to identify optimal movement quality and factors that may contribute to its development.
The human body moves as one integrated unit, otherwise known as the kinetic chain, which is composed of the nervous, muscular, and skeletal system. Optimal alignment of the human body is the basis of all efficient movement. If one of these systems is out of alignment or not functioning optimally, it will lead to predictable patterns of dysfunction called postural distortion patterns. Dysfunction in any system alters length-tension relationships, force-couple relationships and joint kinematics leading to movement impairment syndromes. At this point, the structural integrity of the HMS is compromised because the components are out of alignment and this creates muscle tightness ,muscle weakness , and altered joint arthrokinematics .Furthermore, this creates predictable patterns of tissue overload and dysfunction which leads to decreased neuromuscular control and initiates the cumulative injury cycle where an injury will induce inflammation, muscle spasms, adhesions and muscle imbalances .Muscle imbalances are typically caused by postural stress, emotional duress, repetitive movement, cumulative injury, poor training techniques, lack of core strength /stability, and lack of neuromuscular control. Optimum movement system balance and alignment helps prevent movement impairment syndromes and provides optimal shock absorption, weight acceptance, and transfer of force during functional movements.
Functional movement is central to what it means to be healthy. Functional movement is the ability to produce and maintain a balance between mobility and stability along the kinetic chain while performing fundamental patterns with accuracy and efficiency. Mobility and Stability must coexist to create efficient movement in the body. Mobility describes freedom of movement. Stability is the ability to control force or movement. Stability is the precursor to strength. Muscular strength, flexibility, endurance, coordination, balance, and movement efficiency are components necessary to achieve functional movement.
