Investigating the Relationship Between the Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization Functional and the Functional Movement Screening Tests in Football Players

Background and Aims Functional assessments are used as key tools for informed decision-making in sports training and play a crucial role in identifying movement deficiencies and enhancing performance. Accordingly, this study investigates the relationship between the dynamic neuromuscular stabilization functional (FDNS) test and the functional movement screening (FMS) in football players. Methods This was a cross-sectional correlational study. The subjects included 100 healthy male football players with a mean age of 19.8±2.2 years, a weight of 68.47±7.86 kg, and a height of 177.13±5.24 cm. All participants performed the FDNS tests, which included 11 subtests, and the FMS, which consisted of 7 subtests. Each subtest was scored according to specific guidelines. A single examiner conducted all assessments, and the Spearman correlation test was used for data analysis. Results A significant correlation was observed between the overall scores of these tests (r=0.351). Between the sub-tests of trunk stability push-up (r=0.392) and rotary stability (r=0.261) showed a significant correlation with the total score of the FDNS test. Similarly, the sub-tests of intra-abdominal pressure regulation (r=0.211), diaphragm (r=0.282), hip flexion (r=0.194), straight leg raise (r=0.283), and neck and trunk flexion (r=0.204) showed weak but significant correlations with the total score of the FMS. Conclusion The appropriate activation and coordination of core stabilizing muscles can lead to better performance in FMS tests. This finding is particularly relevant for tests requiring trunk stability and dynamic movement control. The role of respiratory muscles and intra-abdominal pressure regulation should be given more attention as a critical factor in trunk stability. The common focus of both tests highlights the importance of core stability in executing proper movement patterns.