When you’re in pain or struggling to move well, the last thing you need is guesswork. At Move As a Human, we believe in clarity and intention when it comes to movement rehab. That’s why we rely on the Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA)—a structured and evidence-informed tool that helps us uncover the why behind your pain or dysfunction.

But we don’t stop at the basics. While many clinics use SFMA as a checklist, we use it as a launchpad for something more meaningful: a deep, personalized movement experience tailored to you.

What Is SFMA?

The Selective Functional Movement Assessment, or SFMA, is a clinical tool designed for medical and movement professionals to evaluate movement patterns in individuals with musculoskeletal pain. Developed by Gray Cook and Dr. Greg Rose, it’s part of a broader system used by physical therapists, athletic trainers, chiropractors, and performance coaches worldwide.

Rather than zeroing in on a painful joint or body part, SFMA looks at how your body moves as a whole. It identifies movement patterns that are:

1. Functional or dysfunctional
   
2. Painful or non-painful

From there, practitioners can break down the root causes of dysfunction, whether that’s mobility restriction, motor control issues, or compensatory patterns developed over time.

To learn more about the fundamentals of SFMA, visit Functional Movement Systems.

Standard SFMA vs. Our Customized Approach

Many clinics apply SFMA as a protocol: a sequence of tests followed by a standardized response. While this model is useful, it’s often too rigid to capture the complex, personal nature of pain and movement. At Move As a Human, we take SFMA to the next level.

Here’s how our approach differs:

Standard SFMA	Move As a Human’s Approach
Follows the base algorithm without deviation	Uses SFMA as a foundation, then expands into personalized exploration
Focuses on isolated dysfunctions	Looks at movement in context of your daily life, goals, and history
Often administered quickly in busy clinics	Delivered in 1-on-1 sessions with deep attention and discussion
May lead to generic rehab plans	Leads to a custom program based on your body’s story and real-world needs

 

We believe that you are more than a checklist, and your healing journey should reflect that.

Why SFMA Works So Well for Functional Rehab

SFMA is especially powerful because it exposes the interconnectedness of your body. For example, a painful shoulder might stem from a thoracic spine restriction or poor core stability—not a shoulder issue at all.

By identifying where your movement breaks down—and why—we can address the root cause of your symptoms, not just manage them temporarily.

Common conditions that benefit from SFMA-informed rehab include:

1. Chronic low back pain
2. Rotator cuff issues
   
3. Neck stiffness and headaches
   
4. Post-surgical recovery
   
5. Running or lifting-related pain
   
6. Unexplained mobility limitations
   

This assessment helps us tailor interventions that restore functional, pain-free movement, even in long-standing or complex cases.

The Move As a Human Experience

So what can you expect when you visit us for an SFMA-based evaluation?

Whole-Person Discovery

We don’t just test how you move—we ask questions like:

1. How do you feel in your body today?
   
2. What’s your lifestyle like?
   
3. What have other providers overlooked?
   

This sets the tone for a collaborative and empowering experience.

Precise, Purposeful Testing

Using the SFMA framework, we evaluate key movement patterns like:

1. Multi-segmental flexion and extension
   
2. Single-leg stance
   
3. Overhead reach
   
4. Rotational mobility
   
5. Deep squat
   

But unlike generic screenings, we slow down and analyze quality, control, and compensation patterns—and most importantly, how they connect to your unique goals.

Customized Plan of Action

After testing, we develop a fully customized rehab plan. This might include:

1. Guided strength and mobility work
   
2. Neuromuscular re-education
   
3. Breathwork and nervous system support
   
4. Movement pattern retraining
   

All delivered with real-time coaching, video feedback, and ongoing adjustment.

Explore how we support recovery through Functional Rehab and beyond.

Root-Cause Problem Solving

Because we don’t treat symptoms in isolation, you’ll gain insight into how your whole body moves—and learn how to prevent future injuries while building sustainable strength.

Our goal isn’t just short-term relief. It’s helping you move with freedom, power, and confidence.

Real Stories, Real Results

Many of our clients come to us after months or years of frustration. Some have seen multiple providers. Others have been told “it’s all in your head” or given a standard sheet of exercises without understanding why they matter. Through our SFMA-driven process, we help them uncover the real reasons behind their pain and limitations.

“I had no idea my knee pain was related to my breathing and hip mobility. The way Move As a Human explained it just made sense—and I could feel the change instantly.”

Want to hear more? Check out our Success Stories to see how our clients have reclaimed their movement.

Who Should Consider SFMA at Move As a Human?

You don’t need a sports injury or chronic pain to benefit. If you’re:

1. Struggling with a recurring issue
   
2. Not moving as freely or powerfully as you’d like
   
3. Recovering from surgery or physical therapy
   
4. Preparing for a demanding life event (like a race, pregnancy, or career change)
   
5. Just curious about how your body is actually moving
   

…then our assessment is for you.

Smarter Movement Starts Here

At Move As a Human, we use science, soul, and strategy to help you move smarter. SFMA gives us the map—but you help guide the journey.

Whether you’re overcoming an injury or simply want to feel more at home in your body, we’re ready to help.

Book your first free session and let’s start with what matters most—you.