Effect of competition level on functional movement screening scores in soccer players: a retrospective study

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine and compare the scores of the functional movement screen (FMS) of professional male soccer players in different leagues. Materials and Methods: Previously collected data of 64 athletes who were competing in three different soccer leagues, using the FMS test battery procedure were analyzed. Asymmetry and dysfunction rates, total FMS scores, scores of FMS subgroups and scores of each test were compared. Results: There was no statistically significant difference between the FMS scores of soccer players who were competing in different leagues (p˃0.05). In addition, the difference between motor control, mobility and reflex core stabilization subgroup scores were not statistically significant (p˃0.05). When the tests were compared individually, only the rotatory stability test score was found to be statistically significantly different (p<0.05). Conclusions: The rate of asymmetry and dysfunction is high in professional soccer players along with the scores of FMS tests were not significantly different according to the levels of players playing in the professional league, except for the rotation stability test. Players in the top professional league have higher scores in the rotation stability test and less dysfunction. Therefore, postural control is affected by the professional league level in soccer.