General principles of the Movement System Impairment diagnostic system

Abstract

Movement system is a large component of physical therapists’ identity. Two models have been proposed to describe the development of movement impairments: pathokinesiologic and kinesiopathologic models. The Movement System Impairment diagnostic system, which has been proposed by Sahrmann, is based on the kinesiopathologic model. MSI is a theoretical construct, which states that the daily repetitive movements and sustained alignment (lifestyle) induce movement impairments that eventually lead to musculoskeletal pain problems. This article describes the general principles of MSI, such as the likelihood of hypermobility site being the symptomatic location, the effects of relative flexibility and relative stiffness, the results of utilizing movement system diagnosis, importance of performing a standardized examination, and the need for activity specific retraining. Common misunderstandings regarding MSI diagnostic system are also discussed.