Functional Movement Screen Scores, Posture, and Body Mass Index in Urban Children Aged 12–16 Years: A Correlation Study

Abstract Background: Functional movements, posture, and body mass index (BMI) have been some of the most frequently used parameters to assess the well-being of an individual. Although widely studied internationally, the association between functional movements, posture, and BMI is still poorly understood in Indian children. Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between Functional Movement Screen (FMS) scores, posture, and BMI in urban children aged 12–16 years. Study Design: This was a correlational study design. Methods: A sample of 40 children was taken from the community through convenient sampling. Both boys and girls between the ages of 12–16 years were recruited for the study, having no physical, neurological, cardiorespiratory, or mental health condition. Height and weight were measured for each child; functional movements were assessed using the FMS, and posture was assessed using the Posture and Postural Ability Scale. Data analysis was done using IBM SPSS V26 and MS Excel 2010. Results: Significant positive correlations were found between FMS and quality of posture in prone ( r = 0.571, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.32–0.75, P < 0.001), sitting ( r = 0.492, 95% CI: 0.21–0.70, P = 0.001), and standing positions ( r = 0.423, 95% CI: 0.13–0.65, P = 0.006). Significant negative correlations were observed between BMI and quality of posture in prone ( r = −0.443, 95% CI: −0.66 to −0.15, P = 0.004), sitting ( r = −0.320, 95% CI: −0.57 to −0.01, P = 0.044), and standing positions ( r = −0.479, 95% CI: −0.69 to −0.20, P = 0.002). Conclusion: Better functional movement (higher FMS scores) is significantly associated with better posture quality in all positions. Conversely, higher BMI is significantly linked to poorer posture quality in prone, sitting, and standing. Future studies from rural areas are required for more generalized results.