How do you design an SFMA-based exercise program for people with stability issues?

First of all, confirm it's really a motor control/stability issue according to the SFMA standards. For me, I like to simplify it, if they fail a movement pattern actively and pass with flying colors passively then it's MC/Stability issue. Break down the pattern into different components and have them practice those making sure they can pass. For example, failing a shoulder LRF test, you may need to work on scapular stability and loading GH mobility through the range and end ranges. You can even try PNF like resistance through the range of a particular movement and this is often enough stimulation to pass the movement. Be creative!

The Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) is a comprehensive assessment tool used by healthcare professionals to classify movement patterns and identify specific areas of dysfunction in individuals. It is designed to pinpoint the root cause of pain, rather than just focusing on the symptoms, by evaluating fundamental movements that are key to daily activities.

Os modelos clínicos se inserem com grande aplicação quando projetados aos casos em que sua avaliação enquadram comportamentos dentro de sua abordagem focada, como o SFMA, o que ajuda muito na identificação da tendência raiz das limitações de movimento. Ademais deve se complementá-lo com boas fontes de potenciais correlações fatoriais tornando ainda mais assertiva a fonte de dor.

The SFMA is performed through a series of seven full-body movement tests, which are designed to assess the quality of movement in individuals. These tests include both functional and provocative movements that help to uncover the presence of movement restrictions and asymmetries. It's crucial that a certified professional conducts the SFMA to ensure accurate assessment and interpretation.

Interpreting the SFMA involves analyzing the results of the movement tests to distinguish between mobility and stability issues. The outcome categorizes movement patterns into functional/non-painful, functional/painful, dysfunctional/non-painful, and dysfunctional/painful. This classification helps in identifying the areas that require attention and forms the basis for developing a targeted exercise program.

Designing an SFMA-based exercise program starts with the information gathered from the assessment. For individuals with stability issues, the focus should be on exercises that enhance motor control in the identified unstable areas. This could include core stabilization exercises, balance training, and proprioceptive exercises. Each exercise should be chosen based on the individual's specific needs, ensuring they are both safe and effective in addressing the root cause of their stability issues.

Continuous monitoring and periodic re-assessment are key to the success of an SFMA-based exercise program. Progress should be evaluated regularly, and exercises should be adjusted based on the individual's improvement, feedback, and any new patterns of dysfunction that may emerge. It's important to maintain open communication with the individual, encouraging them to report any difficulties or pain experienced during the exercises. Adjustments might include increasing the difficulty of exercises, introducing new exercises, or scaling back if necessary to prevent overtraining or injury.