Can functional movement screen scores predict upper extremity injuries in baseball players? A rapid review

Abstract

Introduction: This rapid review aims to systematically determine whether the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) can predict upper extremity injuries in youth and collegiate baseball players. We hypothesize that the performance of the FMS will demonstrate good predictability for identifying injuries through qualitative appraisal of the evidence.

Methods: An electronic database search was conducted from May 2024 to February 2025 in PubMed and SPORTDiscus to identify cohort-based studies using the FMS to predict upper extremity injuries in youth and collegiate baseball players in this rapid review. Given the distinct injury risks from growth and workload, the methodological quality of the articles was appraised systematically to summarize the findings and identify any potential bias risks.

Results: Of 172 screened articles, only 11 were included, limiting statistical power and representativeness. One article (n = 1) revealed that FMS predicts upper extremity injuries (high school-level study), and several investigations reported that corrective exercises increased FMS scores. However, the bulk of evidence on FMS benefits for youth/college baseball athletes, comprising nine articles (n = 9), found that the FMS was unable to predict injuries, required further research, or failed to specifically answer the PICO question.

Conclusions: There is a lack of evidence supporting the use of FMS to predict upper extremity injuries in youth and collegiate baseball players, but it might be a useful tool for improving patterns. Further research is warranted to evaluate the efficacy of FMS for screening assessments in baseball players.

Keywords: Assessment; Corrective exercises; Elbow; FMS; Injury prediction; Shoulder.