The Science of Motor Control:

From Janda and Beyond

An Evolution from
Muscle Function to Motor Patterns
Albert J Kozar DO, FAOASM, RMSK
Board Certified in NMMOMM, FP, CAQSM, RMSK
Clinical Associate Professor, University of New England Biddeford, ME
Clinical Associate Professor, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine Blacksburg, VA
Team Physician - University of Hartford
Valley Sports Physicians - Avon, CT

AAO Convocation
Louisville, KY
March 13th, 2015

Goals

To discuss what is ideal movement and how might we assess it

To review the developments of motor control from a clinical

perspective in last 30 years from Vladimir Janda, MD to present

To understand the important differences in teaching patients to

learn motor patterns compared to strength training the muscle
system

For you to THINK & TREAT functionally & integratively to the

systemic responses of the human body to injury when dealing with
patients

What is
Normal or Ideal Movement ?

Is it difficult to define ?

Is there not more than one correct way to move ?

Isnt it normal to be able to perform any functional task

in a variety of different ways ?

Can we agree ? Optimal movement or movement

competency might ensure that functional tasks and
postural control activities are performed in an
efficient manner
controls physiological stresses
uses lowest possible energy

What is required to create

Normal or Ideal Movement ?
Movement system comprises the coordinated
interaction of :

Articular

CNS

physiological

Pscho-social

Muscular
Fascial
Neural

What is
Normal or Ideal Movement
Sounds Like:

Somatic Function:

Normal function of related

components of the somatic
(bodywork) system including:
the skeletal, arthrodial, and
myofascial structures, and their
related vascular, lymphatic, and
neural elements.

Normal or Ideal Movement

The concepts of
stability
movement control
the process of how it is achieved
has different interpretations depending on the background of the authors.

Still debate as to whether spinal stability exists, but

no debate the spine must be stable to function

Models that either assess

1) Control of movement and assessment & retraining of uncontrolled
movement or
2) Motor patterns and retraining of motor patterns

appear to be a better approach rather than simply a model stability

Exercise Pandemic ?
Weekend Warrior and the Fitness Trend of more sets, more reps,
and weight without consideration of the quality of movement has
led to a widespread nonimpact related musculoskeletal pain
syndromes of overuse
An inadequate foundation of movement competency or literacy
is seen in faulty movement patterns involving fundamental motor
programs such as:

upright posture
squatting
gait
breathing

How can we assess Movement ?

How can we assess
dysfunctional Movement ?
Key to Management of Movement Dysfunction

Thorough assessment of norms

Accurate diagnosis of whats really dysfunctional

Localized & specific treatment retention by patient

How can we assess

dysfunctional Movement ?
Functional Evaluation of Faulty
Movement Patterns
Janda, Cook, and others have called for
the
functional assessment of movement
patterns to be the
gold standard
for individuals with musculoskeletal pain
syndrome

How can we assess Movement ?

Identifying & classifying movement faults has become the
corner stone of contemporary rehabilitative
musculoskeletal practice

Substitution strategies (Richardson et al 2004; Jull et al 2008)

Compensatory movements (Comerford & Mottram 2001)
Muscle imbalance (Comerford & Mottram 2001; Sahramann 2002)
Faulty movement (Sahramann 2002; Liebenson 2014)
Abnormal dominance mobiliser synergists (Richardson et al 2004)
Co-contraction rigidity (Comerford & Mottram 2001)
Movement impairments (Sahramann 2002; OSullivan et al 2005)
Control impairments (OSullivan et al 2005; Dankaerts et al 2009)
Stability / motor control dysfunction (Cook et al 2005)

Subgroup Classification of Non-specific musculoskeletal pain

related to movement dysfunction
Site & Direction of Uncontrolled Movement

Patterns of Movement Provocation &

(Comerford & Relief with Postural Positioning

Site & Direction of Uncontrolled Movement

Mottram 2001a)
Direction Susceptible to Motion (Sahrmann 2002)
Control impairments & movement impairments (OSullivan
2005)
Stability/motor control dysfunction (SMCDs) (Cook 2005)

Recruitment Efficiency of Local Muscle System

Changes in Feedforward mechanism

Transversus abdominus, multifidus, pelvic floor, diaphragm

(Richardson et al 2004)

Deep neck flexors (Jull et al 2008)

Upper trapezius (Wadsworth & Bullock-Saxton 1997)

Recruitment Efficiency Changes

Muscle Imbalance

Deep neck flexors (Jull et al 2008)

Psoas, subscapularis, upper & lower trapezius, posterior neck

extensors (Gibbons 2007: Comerford & Mottram 2010)

Deep sacral glut max (Gibbons 2007)

Clinical rating system (Comerford & Mottram 2011)

Transversus abdominus (Richardson et al 2004)

Multifidus (Stokes et al 1992: Hides et al 2008)

Psoas (Gibbons 2005: Comerford & Mottram 2011)

Pelvic floor (Peng et al 2007: Whittaker 2007)

Relative flexibility (Sahrmann 2002)

Restriction & Compensation (Kinetic
Control - Comerford & Mottram 2011)
Recruitment sequencing (Janda 1986)

Patterns of Symptom Relief

Associated With Manual Mobilization

Ultrasound Changes

Derangement patterns
(McKenzie
& May 2006)
Jones positional release (straincounterstrain) (Jones et al 1995)

Nags, snags, MWM (Mulligan 2003)

Pelvic dysfunction (DonTingny 1997)
Cyriax (1980), Maitland et al (2005),
Kaltenborn (2003)

Positional Diagnosis

Osteopathy

Historical Development of the Influence of Muscle Function

on Movement and Performance
Stretching & Strengthening
Assessment of Muscle Function

Traditional
Strength

Kendall & McCreary

Sahrmann

Overload training for

power & endurance

Global whole body

Janda

Lewit

Global trunk & limbs

Hodges, Richardson, Hides, Jull

Core
Strength
Overload training
of trunk & girdle

Global Trunk Stability local spinal motor control stability

Alternative Therapies
& approaches
Global trunk & limbs

Core
Strengthening

OSullivan
Integration of trunk
stability into function

Integrative Assessment of Motor Patterns

Kolar
DNS

McGill

Leibenson
Magnificent 7
Evidenced based synthesis
whole body

Kinetic Control

Functional Movement Systems

Comerford & Mottram

Grey Cook

Evidenced based synthesis whole body

Local & global motor control Test & Rx

Evidenced based synthesis whole body

Motor pattern Test & Rx SFMA, FMS

Muscle Imbalance
Neuromuscular system, systemically, responds to
dysfunction in a characteristic, non-random, pattern,
irrespective of the cause/diagnosis
is a systemic reaction of the muscle system that develops
due to the quality of CNS as a reaction to our lifesyles
Janda 2001

Janda Thought:
muscular system lies at a functional
crossroads since it is influenced by BOTH
CNS & PNS
Muscles can be considered a window into
the function of the sensorimotor system
Posture is the expression of the sensorimotor
system

Muscle Imbalance
characterized by impaired relationship between muscles
prone to tightness / shortness and muscles prone to
weakness / inhibition Janda 1964, 1978
Tendency:

Tonic / Postural Muscles: facilitated, hypertonic, tight

Phasic / Dynamic Muscles: inhibited, hypotonic, "weak (pseudoparesis)
Key Points:
NO correlation between histology (slow, fast twitch) of muscles and whether muscle is
prone to inhibition or tightness, it is a functional aspect
Rooted in neurodevelopment
Fiber type doesnt always influence function: a muscle performs based on functional demands and
sensorimotor system
Not rigid classification - some muscles exhibit characteristics of both

Think muscle function in relation to one-legged stance

muscles of upright posture this way show a tendency to tightness

Janda 1983

Tonic System Muscles Prone to Tightness

facilitated, hypertonic, tight
maintains a low level of tone nearly all the time
functions primarily as postural muscle; usually function as movers

LOWER QUARTER

UPPER QUARTER

Psoas & Iliacus, Rectus femoris

SCM, Levator scapula

Hamstrings, Piriformis
Tensor fascia latae
Quadratus lumborum
Short & Long thigh adductors
Tibialis posterior
Triceps Surae (esp Soleus)
Lumbar erector spinae, T/L Jxn

Scalenes, Upper trapezius

Pectoralis, esp minor
Latissimus dorsi
Suboccipitals, Masticators
Subscapularis
Flexors of UE, esp biceps
UE pronators

Phasic System Muscles Prone to Weakness

inhibited, hypotonic, "weak" (pseudoparesis)

exhibit quicker, shorter bursts of activity with phases of rest in between
usually function as stabilizers
LOWER QUARTER
Gluteus Complex

Transversus Abdominis
Rectus Abdominis
External / Internal Obliques
Vasti, esp medialis
Peroneals

Tibialis anterior
Intrinsics of Feet

UPPER QUARTER
Mid & esp Lower Trapezius

Serratus Anterior
Rhomboids
Supra and Infraspinatus
Deltoid
Deep Neck Flexors

Extensors UE

Key Janda Concepts

Muscle list was not meant to be rigid
Concept of patterns - predictable patterns:

The weakness causes the tightness and the tightness causes

the weakness.
You cannot just fix only one because they are
mutually dysfunctional
muscles prone to weakness usually function as stabilizers
muscles prone to tightness usually function as movers.
Consider -- the underlying causes of muscle tightness to be a
dysfunctional stabilizer system that causes movers to shorten in
an attempt to create support
Simply stretching muscles that appear tight will only address part of
the problem and will rarely get to the cause.

Consequences of Muscle Imbalance

Altered joint mechanics biomechanics
Uneven pressure
distribution on joints =
dysfunction
Pain
Altered Movement
patterns
Impaired proprioception

Muscle Imbalance leads

Faulty Movement Patterns
found in children as young as 8 yrs Janda 1987b
normal muscle tightness from 8-16 yrs, then constant
correlation body height, poor fitness, & tightness
Imbalances in children begin in upper extremity

Altered recruitment patterns

delayed activation of primary mover or stabilizer + early facilitation of a
synergist Janda 1987
Within 6 weeks these local changes can become centralized
Janda
1978
Adaptive changes in sensorimotor system (vertical or horizontal)
progress proximally to distally
muscle reaction is specific for each joint Janda 1986a
often due lack variety of movement Jull & Janda 1987

Jandas Basic Movement Patterns

Identified 6 basic movement patterns that provide overall
information about a patients movement quality & control
Hip Extension

Hip Abduction
Curl-up
Cervical Flexion

Push-up
Shoulder Abduction
Observe the patients preferred pattern with only minimal verbal cues
Do not touch patient, as touch is facilitatory
Observe over 3 trials of slow movement

Hip Extension
Test

Normal Pattern:
Hamstrings
GMax bilateral
Contralateral low lumbar ES
Ipsalateral low lumbar ES

Compensation Pattern:
Late / non-firing GMax - deep
Early firing (in order of progressively
worse compensation)
Contralateral T-L paraspinal
Ipsalateral T-L paraspinal
Contralateral lower Trap
Ipsalateral lower Trap
Contralateral Upper Trap
Ipsalateral Upper Trap

Maintainers:
Any LB or LE pain
Ipsalateral Psoas / Iliacus length
Ipsalateral RF length
Tight Hip Capsule

Hip Abduction
Test

Normal Pattern:
GMed
TFL
QL
Erector Spinae

Compensatory Pattern:
Early QL / TFL
Late / non-firing GMd
hiking of the pelvis

Check for:
Tight ipsalateral short
adductors
Tight ipsalateral QL

Normal Pattern:

Shoulder Abduction
Test

Supraspinatus
Deltoid
Infraspinatus
Middle & lower Traps
Contralateral QL

Compensatory Pattern:
Late/non-firing SST/D/IST
Early firing (in order of
progressively worse
compensation):
Contralateral QL
Ipsalateral QL

Muscle Hypertonicity
In general, muscles prone
tightness are 1/3 stronger
Janda 1987

Three important factors in

muscle tightness: Janda 1993
1. muscle length
2. irritability threshold
3. altered recruitment

FUNCTIONAL TYPES of MUSCULAR

HYPERTONICITY Janda 1991
Anatomically Spontaneously Palpably EMG
Distributed
Painful
Tender at Rest

Other Signs

Limbic

no

no

yes

Constant

Chronic stress, fatigue -stress, i.e.

tension headache
Location:Shld/Face, neck, LB, pelvic
floor

Segmental
(of spinal
cord)

yes

yes

yes

None

Imbalance between antagonists

antagonist weak,painful to stretch

Reflex
spasm

not always

yes

Defense Musculare i.e. wry neck

Trigger
Points
(partial
muscle
spasm)

yes

active TP yes
muscle latent
TP - no

Muscle
Tightness

yes

no

parts of muscle hyperirritable

neighboring muscles fibers inhibited
EMG at rest

yes
(palpably
hard)

extensibility primary reason

irritability (decreased threshold)
progressively decreased strength
MUST stretch BEFORE strengthening

FUNCTIONAL TYPES of MUSCULAR

HYPERTONICITY Treatment Janda 1991
Amount
Force

Timing of Force

Other Signs

Segmental
(of spinal cord)

Medium
Strong

Wait for relaxation Goal: aimed at muscle system, not muscle group
use general inhibitory technique -autogenic, Yoga,
Feldenkriest, Alexander

Reflex spasm

Medium
Strong

Wait for relaxation Goal is release

ME is treatment of choice

Trigger Points
(Acute)

Minimal 1-2
fingers 4-8
grams

Trigger Points
(Chronic)

Minimum

Slow

Muscle
Tightness

Strongest

Wait for relaxation

Limbic

Wait for
Goal is selective release of active fibers
relaxation, slow Have lower inhibitory threshold
release, elongate INC muscle tone of limited # motor units
slowly
Goal is to stretch the connective tissue

Main Goal is stretch

cannot stretch CT unless max # of motor units is
inhibited, therefore muscle must be fully
inhibited

Neuromuscular Imbalance
Pseudoparesis

Inhibition, not true weakness

Attempt at strengthening increases

inhibition (will see decreased
recruitment with added weight)
May not appear grossly weak, but
fatigues quickly (poor endurance)
Treat cause(s) inhibition first (neural
reflex)

Jandas Classification of Muscle

Imbalance Patterns
Defined 3 stereotypical
patterns:
Upper-Crossed Syndrome
Lower-Crossed Syndrome
Layered Syndrome
Muscle Imbalance Progression:
Adults: distal in pelvis --> to -->
proximal shoulder & neck
Children: proximal --> to --> distal

typical muscle response to joint

dysfunction is similar to muscle patterns
found in UMN lesions
muscle imbalance is controlled by CNS
Janda 1987

muscle tightness or spasticity is

predominant
weakness results from reciprocal
inhibition of the tight antagonist
patterns lead to postural changes, joint
dysfunction and degeneration
specific patterns of muscle weakness &
tightness cross between the dorsal &
ventral sides body

Degree of tightness & weakness varies, but the pattern rarely does

Upper Crossed Syndrome

(Proximal or Shoulder Girdle Crossed Syndrome)

TIGHTNESS: upper trap & levator

(ventral) cross to pec maj/min
(dorsal)
WEAKNESS: deep cervical flexors
(ventral) cross mid/lower trapezius
(doral)
JOINT DYSFUNCTION:
transition zones in morphology)
occipito-atlantal (OA) jt
C4-5 segment
cervicothoracic (C-T) jt
glenohumeral jt
T4-5 segment

(at

Upper Crossed Syndrome

(Proximal or Shoulder Girdle Crossed Syndrome)

POSTURAL CHANGE:
forward head
increased cervical lordosis
thoracic kyphosis
elevated & protracted shoulders
rotation, abduction, & winging scapula

DYSFUNCTION:
decreased glenohumeral stability (as glenoid
fossa becomes more vertical due to serratus
anterior weakness leading to abduction,
rotation, & winging scapula)

COMPENSATION:
increased activation levator scapula & upper
trapezius to maintain glenohumeral
centralization Janda 1988

Lower Crossed Syndrome

(Distal or Pelvic Crossed Syndrome)

TIGHTNESS: thoracolumbar
extensors (dorsal) to
iliacus/psoas & rectus femoris
(ventral)
WEAKNESS: deep abdominals
(ventral) gluteus max/min (doral)
JOINT DYSFUNCTION:

L4-5 & L5-S1 segments

SI jt
hip jt

Lower Crossed Syndrome

(Distal or Pelvic Crossed Syndrome)

POSTURAL CHANGE:
anterior pelvic tilt
increased lumbar lordosis
lateral lumbar shift
lateral leg rotation
knee hyperextension

DYSFUNCTION:

Type A

Janda 1987

LCS Type A: deep, short lordosis - pelvic muscle imbal

more hip flexion and extension for movement
standing posture demonstrates anterior pelvic tilt with
slight hip & knee flexion
LCS Type B: shallow, long lordosis: trunk muscle imbal

more low back & abdominal movement

minimal lumbar lordosis extending into thoracics

Type B

Lower Crossed Syndrome

(Distal or Pelvic Crossed Syndrome)

COMPENSATION: 2 Subtypes:
LCS Type A:
lumbar limited hyperlordosis
thoracolumbar & upper lumbar hyperkyphosis
LCS Type B:
lumbar to thoracolumbar hypolordosis
upper thoracic hyperkyphosis
head protraction (cervical lordosis)
COG shifted back, shoulders behind
knee hyperextension
Deep trunk stabilizers are inhibited; substituted by activation
superficial muscles Cholewicki, Panjabi, & Khachatryan 1997
Tight hamstrings subst for anterior pelvic tilt & inhib
glut max
Direct affects on dynamic movement:
decreased hip extension leads more anterior pelvic tilt
& lumbar extension

Type A

Type B

Layered Syndrome
(Stratification Syndrome)

Lower Crossed Syndrome + Upper Crossed Syndrome

Progressive marked motor impairment - poorer prognosis

WEAK MUSCLES
Cervical flexors
Lower Stabilizers
of the Scapula
Lumbosacral
erector spinae
Gluteus Maximus

TIGHT MUSCLES
Cervical erector spinae
Upper trapezius
Levator scapulae
Thoracolumbar
erector spinae

Hamstrings

Historical Development of the Influence of Muscle Function

on Movement and Performance
Stretching & Strengthening
Assessment of Muscle Function

Traditional
Strength

Kendall & McCreary

Sahrmann

Overload training for

power & endurance

Global whole body

Janda

Lewit

Global trunk & limbs

Hodges, Richardson, Hides, Jull

Core
Strength
Overload training
of trunk & girdle

Global Trunk Stability local spinal motor control stability

Alternative Therapies
& approaches
Global trunk & limbs

Core
Strengthening

OSullivan
Integration of trunk
stability into function

Integrative Assessment of Motor Patterns

Kolar
DNS

McGill

Leibenson
Magnificent 7
Evidenced based synthesis
whole body

Kinetic Control

Functional Movement Systems

Comerford & Mottram

Grey Cook

Evidenced based synthesis whole body

Local & global motor control Test & Rx

Evidenced based synthesis whole body

Motor pattern Test & Rx SFMA, FMS

Stabilizer vs Mobilizer
Muscle Roles
Rood in Goff (1972), Janda (1996), Sahrmann (2002)
Described & developed functional muscle testing based on these roles
Some muscles are more efficient at one and less efficient in the other

Stabilier Role Characteristics

One joint (mono-articular)

Mobiliser Role Characteristics

Broad aponeurotic insertions

Two joint (bi-articular or multisegmental)

Leverage for load maintenance,

static holding, joint compression

Superficial (longer lever, large

moment arm, greatest bulk)

Unidirectional fibers or tendonous

Postural holding role assoc with
eccentrically decelerating or resisting insertions (to direct force to produce
movements)
momentum (esp axial pl - rotation)
Leverage for range and speed and
joint distraction

Repetitive or rapid movement role

and high strain/force loading

Local vs Global Muscle Roles

Bergmark (1989)
Developed to describe the load transfer across the lumbar spine

Local Muscle System

Characteristics

Global Muscle System

Characteristics

Deepest, one joint

Deep one joint or superfiscial
Minimal force / stiffness
multi-joint
No or minimal length change
Force efficient
Do not produce or limit range of
Concentric shortening to produce
motion
range
Controls translation motor control
Eccentric lengthening or isometric
Maintains background motor
holding to control range
control in all ranges, all directions
No translational control
No antagonists
Direction specific / antagonist
influenced

Functional Classification of Muscle Roles

Comerford & Mottram (2001)
Comerford MJ, Mottram SL. Functional Stability Retraining: Manual Therapy 2001;6(1):3-14
Comerford MJ, Mottram SL. Movement & Stability Dysfunction. Manual Therapy 2001;6(1):15-26
Mottram SL, Comerford MJ. Exercise Therapy: Spine. Chapter 4.3.12, In Textbook of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Edited by Michael
Hutson and Richard Ellis, Oxford Univ Press, p460-84, 2006

Local Stabilizers
maintain joint congruity and stiffness
contracting continuously, relatively independent of the joints direction
of movement -- tonic
provide proprioceptive data

Global Stabilizers
generates force (usually eccentrically) to control range of motion,
especially rotation in the axial plane phasic

Global Mobilizers
generates motion concentrically, especially in the sagittal plane -phasic
can also absorb shock load eccentrically

Functional Classification of Muscle Roles

Comerford & Mottram (2001)
Local Stability Muscle Role /
Global Stability Muscle Role Global Mobility Muscle Role
Strategy
/ Strategy
/ Strategy
Function and
Function and characteristics Function and characteristics
Characteristics
Inc muscle stiffness to control
segmental motion/translation
Controls the neutral jt position
Contraction = no length change
No range of movement
Activity is often anticipatory (or
same instant) to expected
displacement or movement to
provide protective muscle
stiffness prior to motion stress
Recruitment is not anticipatory if
the muscle is already active or
loaded
+/- muscle activity independent of
direction of movement
+/- continuous activity throughout
movement
Proprioceptive input re: joint
position, range, & rate of
movement

Controls range of motion (force)

Contraction = eccentric length
change throughout range

Functional ability to
1)
shorten through the full inner
range of joint motion
2)
isometrically hold position
3)
eccentrically control the return
against gravity & control
hypermobile outer range of joint
motion if present
Deceleration of low load/force
momentum esp axial plane rot
Non-continuous activity
Direction dependent powerfully
influenced by muscles with
antagonistic actions
High threshold activations under

Generates torque to produce

range of joint movement
Contraction = concentric length
change concentric production of
movement
Concentric acceleration of
movement especially sagittal
plane flex/ext
Shock absorption of high load

Very direction dependent

Intermittent muscle activity
very on/off basic pattern of activity
often brief bursts of activity to
accelerate the motion segment
then momentum maintains
movement

Functional Classification of Muscle Roles

Comerford & Mottram (2001)
Local Stability Muscle Role / Global Stability Muscle Role Global Mobility Muscle Role
Strategy
/ Strategy
/ Strategy
Dysfunction
Dysfunction
Dysfunction
Motor control deficits associated
Muscle lacks the ability to
1)
with delayed timing or recruitment
shorten through the full inner
deficiency
range of joint motion
2)
isometrically hold position
3)
Reacts to pain & pathology with
eccentrically control the return
inhibition
Inefficient low threshold tonic
Decrease muscle stiffness and
recruitment
poor sentimental control
Poor rotational dissociation
Loss of control of joint neutral
position
If hypermobile poor control
excessive range

Loss of myofascial extensibility

limits physiologic and/or a
accessory motion
(which
must be compensated for
elsewhere)
Overactive low threshold, low load
recruitment
Reacts to pain & pathology with
spasm

Demonstrates uncontrolled
sagittal movement under high
Inhibition by dominant antagonists
threshold recruitment testing
Altered recruitment patterns and
uncontrolled movement with high
threshold recruitment
Strength deficits on high threshold
recruitment

How Do We Identify a
Muscles Primary Role
?

Critical Appraisal of Muscle Characterization

Muscles ideal role should consider the co-relation of 4
significant features
Supportive Findings: then we can be reasonably
confident that we understand a particular muscles
primary functional role
This support is only available for: TrA, EOA, RA, Hams

Conflictive Findings: then we can be reasonably

confident that there is confusion, misunderstanding, or
interpretation of a particular muscles primary functional
role

Function
1. Anatomical location &
structure
2. Biomechanical
potential
3. Neurophysiology

Reasons for confusion:

Discrepancies of measured features
QL, Lat, Piriformis

Misinterpretation of measured features

Psaos Mj, U Trap, L Trap, VMO

Muscle is designed to participate in more than one primary

functional role
GMax, Infraspin

Large % muscles we work with on regular basis do not

have enough information on all 4 features to claim
adequate understanding of its 10 role
Serratus Ant, Add Magnus, Subscap

Dysfunction
4. Consistent and
characteristic
changes in the
presence of Pain or
Pathology

Identifying a Muscles Primary Role

Task Specific Muscles
Have a specific task oriented role associated with one classification
In the presence of pathology and/or pain, very specific dysfunctions can
develop and are associated with the recognize specific primary role.
These dysfunctions are consistent and predictable
Very specific retraining or correction has been advocated

(Hodges &

Richardson 1996, 1997, 1999; Jull et al 2000; OSullivan 2000; Hides et al 1996, 2001)

The specific training is typically nonfunctional and designed to correct

very specific elements of dysfunction
Training may or may not integrate into normal functional activity
There is no currently no method to predict or clinically measure automatic
integration into normal function
In many patients this integration has to be facilitated

Identifying a Muscles Primary Role

Multitasking Muscles
Less specific roles or participate in a variety of roles in normal function

There is good evidence to support the muscle having

1) both a local and global roles or
2) contribution to stability & mobility roles
Ex: glut max; infraspinatus, pelvic floor

In presence of pathology and/or pain, a variety of different dysfunctions

may develop
These dysfunctions can be identified as being associated with either or all
of the multitasking rolls and are related to the weak links in an individuals
integrated stability system
Different dysfunctions can present with pain and are not predictable
More detailed assessment is required with a clinical reasoning process
Treatment and retraining has to address the particular dysfunction that
presents, usually needs to be multifactorial, and should emphasize
integration into normal function

What comes 1st Pain or Dysfunction ?

Global
Global muscle dysfunction can precede
and contribute to the development of pain
& pathology
Pain & pathology are not a necessary
consequence of global muscle
dysfunction

Local
Local muscle dysfunction does not
precede the development of pain &
pathology, but rather is due to pain &
pathology
Pain & pathology does not have to be
present in the presence of local muscle
dysfunction (may be related to distant
history)

Recruitment Changes Associated with

Inhibition
In Stability Dysfunction:

Inhibition off
Inhibition weak

INHIBITION:
can be identified as failure of normal
recruitment

Mounting evidence that the

failure of low load recruitment
efficiency is the most
consistent & reliable indicator
of recurrence injury & pain

poor recruitment under low load

stimulus
evidence in both local & global system

delayed recruitment timing

OSullivan 1998, Richardson et al 1998, Hides

et al 2001, Cameron et al 2003, Alexander
2007, Keisal et al 2007

evidence in the local system

altered recruitment sequencing

evidence in global system

PROBLEM: timing on order

of millisec (60-150)

Redefining Core Stability

Rehabilitation
core stability has achieved generic status in
exercise & fitness industry
representing large range exercises from
almost imperceptible activation of deep
abdominals to
lifting weights while balancing on a
physioball

Similarities & Differences between

Core Rehabilitation Processes (Comerford 2009)
Traditional
Strengthening
(Limbs)
Training
Threshold

Muscle Bias

high

Core
Strengthening
(Trunk)
high

low

Motor Control
Stability
(Local)
low

global mobilizers global stabilizers global stabilizers local stabilizers

Position/Plane sagittal plane +/- neutral position

of Primary
coronal
+/- axial plane
Loading

Type of
Loading

Motor Control
Stability
(Global)

isotonic
(concentric) +/isometric &
isokinetic

isometric +/isotonic
(concentric)

neutral position
+/- axial plane

neutral position

isotonic
(eccentric) &
isometric

isometric

Indications for LOW LOAD TRAINING of the

LOCAL SYSTEM as a clinical priority
1. Relevant symptom presentation:
a.

assoc low load normal daily function

b. non-direction specific pain

c. assoc static position & all postures

2. Uncontrolled compensatory articular

translation
3. History of insidious recurrence
(prevention)
4. Poor voluntary low threshold
recruitment efficiency
(Comerford 2009)

Indications for LOW LOAD TRAINING of the

GLOBAL SYSTEM as a clinical priority
1. Relevant symptom presentation:
a.

assoc low load normal daily function

b. direction specific pain - assoc specific direction

movement provocation

2. Direction related mechanical pain

3. Low threshold recruitment imbalance
between stabilizers & mobilizers

4. History recurrence - usu related precipitating

event where specific direction of stress or strain is
implicated in mechanism injury

5. Asymptomatic uncontrolled (direction

specific) segmental movement

(Comerford 2009)

Indications for HIGH LOAD TRAINING of the

LOCAL SYSTEM as a clinical priority
1. Relevant symptom presentation:
a. unilateral pain
b. Only assoc high load activity
c. Direction specific pain - assoc specific
direction movement provocation
d. provoked with asymmetrical activity

2. Atrophy (disuse) or load related

weakness
3. Rotation give under high load
testing
a. with unilateral or asymmetrical (rotational)
load
b. with bilateral or symmetrical (sagittal) load
(Comerford 2009)

Indications for HIGH LOAD TRAINING of the

GLOBAL SYSTEM as a clinical priority
1. Relevant symptom presentation:
a. midline pain
b. only assoc high load activity
c. Direction specific pain - assoc specific direction
movement provocation
d. symptoms provoked with symmetrical or sagittal
(flexion/extension) activity

2. Atrophy (disuse) or load related

weakness
3. Sagittal (flexion/extension) give under
high load testing:
a. with bilateral or symmetrical (sagittal) load
b. with unilateral or asymmetrical (rotational) load
(Comerford 2009)

Motor Control Stability vs Strength

GOOD
MOTOR
CONTROL
STRONG

WEAK

POOR
MOTOR
CONTROL
-+

GOOD
PERFORMANC
E

+-

--

POOR
PERFORMANC
E

PAIN
FREE

PAINFU
L

++

Implications for Manual Muscle Testing

Motor Control Stability Assessment
reliably tested under low-load
conditions

ability pass / fail low threshold test

of motor recruitment:
PASS
no movement induced
pathology
pain free function
FAIL
development of movement
pathology
painful function

Muscle Strength Assessment

ability pass / fail a test of
resisting or supporting a high load
graded 1-5
PASS
good power
good endurance
performance
Fail
weakness
loss performance

Low-Threshold Deficits
only clinically and functionally identified with very specific test of low-load
recruitment efficiency
Some develop prior to onset of symptoms/injury precursors or
contributors Comerford et al 2001, Sahrmann 2002
Evidence that it is a consistent and reliable predictor of recurrence
al 1998, Hides et al 2001

Richardson et

Historical Development of the Influence of Muscle Function

on Movement and Performance
Stretching & Strengthening
Assessment of Muscle Function

Traditional
Strength

Kendall & McCreary

Sahrmann

Overload training for

power & endurance

Global whole body

Janda

Lewit

Global trunk & limbs

Hodges, Richardson, Hides, Jull

Core
Strength
Overload training
of trunk & girdle

Global Trunk Stability local spinal motor control stability

Alternative Therapies
& approaches
Global trunk & limbs

Core
Strengthening

OSullivan
Integration of trunk
stability into function

Integrative Assessment of Motor Patterns

Kolar
DNS

McGill

Leibenson
Magnificent 7
Evidenced based synthesis
whole body

Kinetic Control

Functional Movement Systems

Comerford & Mottram

Grey Cook

Evidenced based synthesis whole body

Local & global motor control Test & Rx

Evidenced based synthesis whole body

Motor pattern Test & Rx SFMA, FMS

Motor Learning & Control

How are specific movement patterns
selected out of the vast number of options
available ?

Motor Learning & Control

Motor Program Theory (MTP)

Central control of movement instructions

Neural Storage of motor plans

PROBLEMS:

Storage infinite volume

Novelty new: where does program originate

Motor Equivalence same action can be accomplished using diff
patterns how is it a program

Schmidt Generalized Motor Program (GMP)

Not every action has specific program

Generalized programs that contain rules for a large class of

similar actions

Reduces volume

New actions are versions of others

Not muscle specific Invariant features specified by

program timing, force these define the class and
decrease volume information stored

Contemporary evidence
for Motor Patterns
1)

studies of reaction time in humans

2)

studies in which feedback has been

removed (animals & humans)

3)

studies on impact on performance when

movement is expectantly blocked

4)

analysis of behaviors when humans

attempt to stop or change an action

5)

studies of movements initiated by

startling stimuli

Schmidt RA & Lee TD. Motor Learning And Performance: From Principles to Appliction. 5th Ed. 2013

Uncovering the Secrets of Human Memory

Case Study

Head Trauma Age 9

Progressive epilepsy b/l
temporal lobes
Age 23 1953
Dr
William Scoville at Hartford
Hospital performed
lobectomy b/l anterior two
thirds of his hippocampi &
amygdalae

H. M.

Cured Seizures & Lost short

term memory
Retained long term

Henry Gustav Molaison

Feb. 26, 1926
Hartford, Connecticut
Dec. 2, 2008 (age 82)

Retained & could still

learn MOTOR SKILLS

http://thebrainobservatory.ucsd.edu/hm
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00t6zqv
Brain was sliced 70 micrometers thin (2401 slices)
57 years worth of behavioral data

What Research Says About Muscle Memory

EMG result from:
1) agonist (upper) muscles &
2) antagonist (lower) muscles
when subject:
1) actually produced movement
(normal trial RED)
AgonistAntagonist-Agonist triple burst of
rapid movt
2) movement was blocked by a
mechanical perturbation
(blocked trial BLUE)
SAME
PATTERN
Contradicts theories that feedback
from moving limb activates antagonist
at correct time
Wadman et al 1979
(taken Schmidt RA & Lee TD. Motor Learning And Performance: From
Principles to Appliction. 5th Ed. 2013)

Surprise:
antagonist actually fired &
at same time

What Research Says About Brain Plasticity

Data from ACL rupture as model of peripheral joint injury
Compared w healthy indiv & those good vs bad outcomes
fMRI studies: Kapreli et al. Amer J Sports Med. 2009
EEG studies: Baumeister et al. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2008
TMS (transcranial magnetic simulation) Studies:
Pietrosimone et al. J Sports Rehabil 2013.

Increased requirements for movement planning, even for simple

movements of flexion / extension only

All data supports that neuropastic changes occur after peripheral

joint injury modifications in cortical involvement
Ward et al. Muscle & Nerve. 2015

What is Motor Control ?

Brain knows movement
patterns !! Not, muscles

Motor control patterns come

from the brain, not muscles
Each pattern is highly
characteristic book that sits on
the shelf in our brain
Motor programs are planned in advance and executed without
many changes in the triggered action for at least first 120ms
Skill memory is processed in the cerebellum, which relays
information to the basal ganglia. It stores automatic learned
memories like tying a shoe, playing an instrument, or riding a
bike

What is Motor Control ?

Poor movement can exist anywhere in the body
Poor movement patterns exist to large extent in the
brain
Dysfunction in motor control results in Functional
pathology

Altered or restricted movement patterns

Principle 1:
TRAIN THE BRAIN, Stop training muscles !!!

Causes of Restricted Mobility

1) Soft-Tissue
Dysfunction
Generally identifies
multi-articular
dysfunction
Fascial tension
Neural tension
Muscle shortening
Hypertrophy
Active/Passive
muscle insufficiency
Trigger Points
Type I SDs
Scarring & fibrosis

2) Joint Dysfunction
Generally identifies
single-segmented
dysfunction
Type II SDs
Articular Restrictions
Subluxation /
Dislocation
Adhesive Cap

Osteoarthritis
Fusion or
Instrumentation

3) Stability / Motor
Control Dysfunction
Generally identifies
multi-segmented
dysfunction
Brain problem
Not local issue
Can resolve with
treatment of local
resisted pathologies
Can persist despite
lack local
pathologies

Normal ROM Barriers

Physiological Barrier (Active ROM)

Elastic Barrier (Passive ROM Limit)
Anatomical Barrier

Neutral

Mobility (ST/JT) Restriction ROM Barriers

Elastic Barrier
New Passive ROM

Pathological Barrier
New Active ROM

Pathologic Neutral

Movement Pattern Dysfunction ROM Barriers

Pathologic Neutral
Elastic Barrier
Apparent Pathological Barrier
Normal Passive ROM Limit New Apparent Active ROM Limit

Skill Acquisition

Skills are those that demonstrate

Consistency repeatable over period of

trials

Flexibility (transferability) modifiable with

changing environment

Efficiency sustainable with endurance

Muratori et al. Applying principles of motor learning and control to upper extremity rehabilitation.
J Hand Therapy. 2013

Stages of Skill Acquisition

Subconscious
Dysfunction

Initial

learn basic movement

Identify components environment
important to task
Should be encouraged to actively
explore the environment thru trial &
error

Phases of progressive
improvement in
motor programs

Conscious
Dysfunction
Conscious
Function
Subconscious
Function

Learning is not linear

Later less cognitive

Muratori et al. Applying principles of motor learning and control to upper extremity rehabilitation.
J Hand Therapy. 2013

Measurement of Motor Learning

Acquisition initial practice of new skill

Retention ability to demonstrate attainment goal or

improvement following a delay in practice

Transfer performance of task similar in movement yet

different

Acceptable performance of a motor skill within a single

session (or series of sessions) does NOT demonstrate that
the skill has been learned
Skill is not learned until retention & transfer is
demonstrated
Muratori et al. Applying principles of motor learning and control to upper extremity rehabilitation.
J Hand Therapy. 2013

So Whats the Best Way to Train

for the Brain ?
Promoting Skill Acquisition
Block Training

Random Training

Do one exercise for a certain

number of repetitions per set

Do multiple exercises per set

and one rep of each

Each rep has the same

movement

Each rep has some different

movement

No stopping between reps

Take time with each rep

Focus on form

Focus on feel

Random vs Blocked Practice

RANDOM

BLOCKED

Jerky

FORM

Smooth

PRACTICE

Random vs Blocked Practice

RANDOM

BLOCKED

Jerky

FORM

Smooth

PRACTICE

Block
RETENTION

Random vs Blocked Practice

RANDOM

BLOCKED

Jerky

FORM

Smooth

PRACTICE

Block Random
RETENTION

So Whats the Best Way to

Train for the Brain ?
Random vs Blocked Practice
Even though random conditions result in
much less skilled performance than blocked
conditions in acquisition random practice
conditions produce more motor learning
Principle 2:
TRAIN RANDOMLY, Reduce Block Training !!!

Illusions of Learning
RANDOM

Jerky

FORM

Smooth

PRACTICE

Illusions of Learning
RANDOM

Jerky

FORM

Smooth
Predicted
PRACTICE

RETENTION

Illusions of Learning
RANDOM

Jerky

FORM

Smooth
Predicted
PRACTICE

Actual

RETENTION

Motor Programs are Different

than Cognitive Skills

Retention of motor skills is better and more enduring than

factual information

If you write a book you cant change the book

Motor programs are almost never lost, just put on the shelf

In some cases, they may have never been learned

You CAN always write a new book

Principle 3:
WRITE A NEW BOOK or RECALL AN OLD ONE,
Stop trying to change the old one !!!

How to Provide Feedback

during motor control retraining
Possible Types

Fading Techniques
Learner Requested Feedback
Error-Detection Feedback
Performance Bandwidth
Summary Technique
Playing Stats

How to Provide Feedback

during motor control retraining
Possible Progression

Start with Performance Based Feedback

Ask for Patient Feedback with a successful pattern

Learn THEIR language and adapt your words

Ask them: What did that one FEEL like to you

Move quickly to Error-Detection Feedback (Random)

Provide feedback based on their response

Performance Bandwidth feedback next
Learner Requested Feedback next
Summary Technique after time

Principle 4:
Allow them to learn from mistakes, dont overdue feedback

How do we choose to sample

or screen motor patterns ?

Which patterns should we

choose ?

Historical Development of the Influence of Muscle Function

on Movement and Performance
Stretching & Strengthening
Assessment of Muscle Function

Traditional
Strength

Kendall & McCreary

Sahrmann

Overload training for

power & endurance

Global whole body

Janda

Lewit

Global trunk & limbs

Hodges, Richardson, Hides, Jull

Core
Strength
Overload training
of trunk & girdle

Global Trunk Stability local spinal motor control stability

Alternative Therapies
& approaches
Global trunk & limbs

Core
Strengthening

OSullivan
Integration of trunk
stability into function

Integrative Assessment of Motor Patterns

Kolar
DNS

McGill

Leibenson
Magnificent 7
Evidenced based synthesis
whole body

Kinetic Control

Functional Movement Systems

Comerford & Mottram

Grey Cook

Evidenced based synthesis whole body

Local & global motor control Test & Rx

Evidenced based synthesis whole body

Motor pattern Test & Rx SFMA, FMS

NEURODEVELOPMENT
AL PERSPECTIVE

Normal sequence of
learning movement follows:

Breathing

Grasping / Gripping

Head & Eye Movement

Limb Movement

Rolling

Crawling

Kneeling

Transitional Movements

Standing

Tree of Growth
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elkRyqLpcNk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zuUV6fz-iU

Increasing Neurodevelopmental Order

The Selective Functional Movement Assessment

Top Tier Screen
-----------DN
FN
FP
DP
1) Active Cervical ROM
Active Cervical Flexion
Active Cervical Extension
Active Cervical Rotation
2) Upper Extremity Patterns
Pattern 1: MRE Pattern 2: LRF 3) Multi-Segmental Flexion
(Touch your Toes)
4) Multi-Segmental Extension
(Hands overhead Backward Bend)
5) Multi-Segmental Rotation
(Standing Rotation Test)
6) Single Leg Stance
7) Overhead Deep Squat

When Should We Suspect

Stability / Motor Control Dysfunction ?
History of recurrence

Traumatic hypermobility (passive restraints)

Lack of ability for typical muscles prone to tightness to
reproduce extensibility (recurrent stiffness)

Abnormal muscle firing sequences on ROM testing

Weak phasic muscles on exam
Easy fatigability of phasic muscles

Poor core strength

Poor proprioception (esp w eyes closed)
Poor awareness of axial position sense

Need for frequent OMT, recurrent SD

Final Thoughts
Movement patterns come from the brain
These patterns MUST be retrained after
mobilization procedures to ensure
a change in the engram within the brain

a change with how one will use their

newfound ROM it is often not automatic
Think gross motion in assessing these patterns
Moreside JM. McGiill SM. 2013 J Strength Cond Res. Oct;27(10):2635-43.
Improvements in hip flexibility do not transfer to mobility in functional movement patterns.
Grey Cook. Movement: Functional Movement Systems. 2010

Understanding Movement & Function

This lecture/workshop is based on the clinical approach to the assessment and correction of
movement dysfunction, with concepts integrated and developed from the following sources:
Clinical development & collaborative research: KineticControl.com - Mark Comerford,
Sarah Mottram, Sean Gibbons, Clark, Silvester, Bunce, Enoch, Andreotti, & Strassel
late Vladimir Janda, MD Check Republic
Phillip Greenman, DO: Michigan State University, USA
P Gunner Brolinson, DO, FAOASM, FAAFP: Virgina Polytechnic Insti & State Univ,
Blacksburg, VA, USA
S Sahrmann: Washington University, St Louis USA
Perform Better: Gary Gray & Grey Cook
Richardson, Jull, Hodges, & Hides: Physiotherapy Depart, Univ Queensland, Australia
D Lee: Ocean Pointe Physiotherapy Consultants, White Rock, BC, Canada
Vleeming & Snijders (Research Group Musculoskeletal System), Erasmus University,
Rotterdam, Netherland
Physiotools, Finland
Ben Kibler, MD; USA

References

Thank You !!

The Selective Functional Movement Assessment

Second Tier Breakouts
Mobility Restriction or Stability/Motor Control Impairment

Logic used:
Ask what local joint movements are required for each
movement pattern ?
Can you eliminate a body part ?
Bilateral

Unilateral vs

Can you change the stability requirements ?

vs Unloaded
Confirm compare Active vs Passive ROM

Loaded

The Selective Functional Movement Assessment

Second Tier Breakouts
Example:

Logic used:
Ask what local joint movements are required for each
movement pattern ?
Can you eliminate a body part ?
Bilateral

Unilateral vs

Can you change the stability requirements ?

vs Unloaded
Confirm compare Active vs Passive ROM

Loaded

SFMA Rehabilitative Approach

Laws of SFMA:
Treat Mobility problems BEFORE stability correction
Treat DNs before DPs
Treat DPs before FPs
Treat T-spine mobility problems before shoulder
Treat T-spine mobility problems before lumbar
Once mobility problems are eliminated, If a stability
problem still exists, must first do a fundamental test to r/o
fundamental pattern problem
Supine & Prone, Upper & Lower Body Rolling Tests

Mobility
vs
Stability
MOBILITY
Joints w multiplane plane motion

STABILITY
Joints w primarily single plane motion
Joint by Joint Approach.
Boyle M. 2010

In Dysfunction
MOBILITY

THEY BECOME STIFF & INJURED

(need mobility)
Ankle
Hip
Thoracic

STABILITY
THEY BECOME UNSTABLE
(Need Stability)
Foot
Knee
Lumbopelvic
Shoulder
Cervical

Joint by Joint Approach.

Boyle M. 2010

Real World Muscle Function

Motor pattern of
Ecconcentric Contraction
def: During functional activity, different portions of the
same muscle may undergo concentric, eccentric,
isometric, or even no activity, simultaneously.
Human function is three dimensional - All of our core
functional activities require an integrated NMS system
that reacts and moves in all three planes simultaneously
Walking forward obviously includes sagittal plane motion,
but actually is dominated by transverse plane motion with
significant frontal plane motion occurring concurrently.
Successful standing and balancing requires three
dimensional capabilities of the NMS system throughout
the chain reaction.
Brolinson PG, Gray G. Principle Centered Rehabilitation. Chapter 55 In: Principles & Practice of Primary Care Sports Medicine, edited Garrett WE, Lippincott 2001

Structure / Function Reciprocity

Has moved beyond simple muscle and bone to:

BioTensegrity (Levin)
Macro - system integration
Micro - Individual cellular structure
Nuclear - Proteonomics

Neuromuscular Balance
Systemic neuromotor integration of stability
Engrams or motor patterns

Real Word Muscle Function

Brolinson & G Gray)

(G

Ecconcentric contraction
Supination / Pronation Link (Spiral Power)

Basis of Functional Approach

Interdependence of all structures from both the CNS & MSK system
in production and control of motion
Osteopathic Principles
Tensegrity / Biotensegrity
Fascial Continuity
The muscle system lies at a functional crossroad because it is
influenced by stimuli from both CNS & PNS system

Dysfunction any component of either of these systems is reflected in

the MSK SYSTEM as:
altered muscle tone
muscle contraction
muscle balance
Dis-coordination
altered motor patterns
altered performance

Joint Stability

+
FORM CLOSURE

=
FORCE CLOSURE

CLINICAL
STABILITY

Stability Dysfunction
Bony Problem
(Surgical)

Enthesopathy:
Ligament Laxity
Tendinosis

Neuromuscular
Imbalance

CLINICAL
INSTABILITY

Janda References
Janda Compendium. Vol I (Compiled writings by Vladimir Janda 19 published articles).
Distributed by: OPTI, PO Box 47009, Minneapolis, MN 55447-0009. (763) 553-0452.
Janda Compendium. Vol II (Compiled writings by Vladimir Janda 17 published articles).
Distributed by: OPTI, PO Box 47009, Minneapolis, MN 55447-0009. (763) 553-0452.
TEXT: Page, Phil; Frank, Clark; Lardner, Robert. Assessment & Treatment of Muscle
Imbalance: The Janda Approach. Human Kinetics. 2010 by Benchmark Physical Therapy
Inc.
Janda V. Muscle weakness and inhibition (pseudoparesis) in back pain syndromes. In:
Grieve GP. Modern Manual Therapy of the Vertebral Column. Edinburgh, Scotland:
Churchill-Livingstone, 1986; 197-200.
Janda V. Muscles and motor control in low back pain: Assessment and management. In:
Twomey LT. Physical Therapy of the Low Back. New York, Edinburgh, London: Churchill
Livingstone, 1987; 253-78.

Functional Classification LE Muscle Roles

Joint

Knee

Foot / Ankle

Local
Stabilizar

Global
Stabilizer

Biceps Femoris
ITB (TFL & SGM)
Lateral Retinaculum
Rectus Femoris
Gastroc
Soleus

Popliteus
VMO

Intrinsics
Tibialis Posterior

Global Mobiliser

Tibialis Posterior
(CKC)
Tibialis Anterior
Soleus

Peroneals
Gastroc
Toe flexors
Toe Extensors

Principle Centered Rehabilitation

Treatment Thinking vs Preventive Thinking
Functional Analysis Rehabilitative Method:
Goal: find root cause
Functional evaluation / testing
Causative Cure and Integrated Isolation

Real World muscle function

Consideration of Compensations
Success Imperative
Brolinson PG, Gray G. Principle Centered Rehabilitation. Chapter 55 In: Principles & Practice of Primary Care Sports Medicine, edited
Garrett WE, Lippincott 2001

Principle Centered Rehabilitation

Supination:

Pronation:
Chain collapse
Shock absorption
Reaction to gravity & ground
reactive forces
Succumbs to gravity
Eccentric (deceleration) muscle
function

Chain elongation
Propulsion
Overcomes gravity
Concentric (acceleration) muscle
function

The transformation of pronation into supination is the KEY to the

process of the locomotor system in sport movement
Brolinson & Gray

This transformation is dominated by Isometric (stabilizing) and ecconcentric

muscle function: a deceleration of motion at one joint and acceleration of motion
at another joint or in another plane, all at the same time

Principles of the Exercise Prescription

Spectrum of Rehabilitation

NOT stages
Acute - Inflammation
Tools rest/modalities/sensory balance/early mobilization

Recovery - Fibrosis
Tools directional movements (unloaded), mobilization, specific progression, flexibility, proprioception

Retraining - Sclerosis
Tools directional movements (loaded), functional program, power, endurance, skills

Comprehensive functional spectrum therapy begins

with function and ends with function

Motion, stability, flexibility, and strength are facilitated

concurrently and not independently

Principles of Stability Rehab

Local/Global Stability System Control of Direction
1. Retrain Dynamic Control of the Direction of Stability Dysfunction

Motor Control & Co-ordination of direction specific stress & strain

Local Stability System Control of Translation

1. Control of Translation in the Neutral Joint Position

Low Threshold Recruitment of the local stability system to control articular

translation

Global Stability System Control Of Imbalance

1. Rehabilitate Global Stabiliser Control through Range

2. Rehabilitate Global Stabiliser Extensibility through Range

Balancing functional length and recruitment dominance between global

synergists

Principles of Stability Rehab

Local/Global Stability System Control of Direction
Retrain Dynamic Control of the Direction of Stability Dysfunction
Control the give & Move the restriction
Retrain control in the direction of symptom producing movements
Use low load integration of local and global stabiliser muscle
recruitment to control and limit motion at the segment or region of
give

Then actively move the adjacent restriction

Only move through as much range as the restriction allows or as far as
the give is dynamically controlled

Control of direction directly unloads mechanical

provocation of pathology and therefore is the key
strategy to symptom management
Motor Control & Co-ordination of direction specific stress & strain

Principles of Stability Rehab

Local Stability System
Control of Translation
Control in the Neutral Joint Position
Retrain tonic, low threshold activation of
the local stability muscle system to
increase muscle stiffness and train
functional low load integration of the
local and global stabiliser muscles to
control abnormal translation in the
neutral joint position

Low Threshold Recruitment of the

local stability system to control
articular translation

Principles of Stability Rehab

Global Stability System Control Of Imbalance
Rehabilitate Global Stabiliser Control through Range
Rehab to control the full available range of joint motion
These muscles are required to actively shorten and control limb load through to the
full passive inner joint ROM
They must also control any hypermobile outer range
Control of rotational forces is critical
Eccentric control of range is more important than concentric

Optimised by low effort, sustained holds in the muscles shortened position with
controlled eccentric lowering

Rehabilitate Global Stabiliser Extensibility through Range

When the 2-joint global mobility muscles demonstrate a lack of extensibility due to
overuse or adaptive shortening, compensatory overstrain or give occurs elsewhere
in the kinetic chain in an attempt to maintain function
Need to lengthen or inhibit dominance or over-activity in the global mobilisers to
eliminate the need for compensation to keep function

Balancing functional length and recruitment dominance between global

synergists