What we do
Using the latest technology, patient-specific data is collected about how joints and muscles move and function during sport-specific activities. The data is interpreted and analyzed to provide detailed information on alignment, muscle recruitment, strength, flexibility, and movement.
This information is used to assess risk of injury and possible limitations to fully participating in a sport at the highest level. The data can be used by referring providers, athletic trainers, and physical therapists to provide the most effective and customized treatment, rehab, return to sport, and training approach.
We offer a variety of sports movement services:
- Sports Movement Evaluation: These are 2-2.5 hour evaluations performed at the Research and Movement Lab at Mary Bridge Children’s Therapy Services in Puyallup
- Return to Play: This is a customized evaluation for athletes returning to sport after an acute injury or surgery.
- Diagnostic: This is designed for athletes that have chronic pain, persistent injuries, have failed conservative therapy and/or for injury prevention.
- Injury Prevention Screening: The injury prevention screenings are performed onsite and designed for sports teams and athletic programs to identify potential injury risks in their movement patterns. This is a mobile 3D movement lab that we bring directly to your practice or training.
What to bring
The assessment will take approximately 2-2.5 hours. Please eat a good meal prior to the appointment.
Please bring the following items:
- Tight fitting shorts such as spandex or bike shorts
- Below-the-ankle socks and athletic shoes
- Tight tank top or sports bra top for girls
- Snacks and a beverage
What to expect at the visit
Patient participating in kinematic and kinetic data collection during sports movement evaluation.
A physical therapist and biomechanist will work with you to complete the evaluation, which may include the following assessments:
- Review of medical history and specific concerns
- Physical examination, including:
- Range of motion
- Strength
- Posture and alignment
- Photographs and video gait assessment
- Motion capture analysis
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Force plate assessment
- Foot pressure
- Metabolic consumption
You will be asked to perform sports activities, such as running, cutting, deceleration, jumping, lateral shuffle, step down, and single leg hop.
Other sport specific activities may also be included as needed.
What to expect after the visit:
- A report will be shared with referring provider and/or any specialists involved in care.
- Based on specific results, an assessment will be included making plan of care and treatment recommendations.
- A copy of the report will also be made available via:
- MultiCare MyChart
- Health Information Management Department (855-673-2673)
- MultiCare Medical Records
If you are interested in a physical therapy evaluation, we recommend the below orthopedic physical therapy locations:
How to be referred to the Research & Movement Lab
To be scheduled for a sports movement evaluation, patients need a referral from primary care or specialty healthcare provider. For more specific referral information please call 253-697-5268 or email [email protected].
Download the referral form Learn more about Movement Lab referrals