Movement Assessment

Pain is not always caused by one single structure. Often, it develops because the body is moving differently over time — through stiffness, weakness, imbalance, or poor control.

This page helps you understand some of the common movement patterns that can contribute to neck, shoulder, back, and hip pain, so you can begin identifying what may be driving your symptoms.

Why Movement Assessment Matters

Explain that pain is often linked to how the body moves, not just where it hurts.

What to Look For

  • Stiffness
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Weakness
  • Poor posture
  • Compensation
  • Pain with certain movements

Common signs of movement problems

  • Pain when bending
  • Pain after sitting
  • One-sided tightness
  • Weakness when lifting
  • Discomfort during walking or reaching

Movement Checks by Body Area