A Short Case Study on a Junior Golfer Using MAT Assessment Tool
As a Physical Therapist and Golf Performance Specialist, I must accurately assess my client’s mobility and strength beyond the area where the pain or issue is felt, which is why I use MAT.
The MAT assessment is a great tool for assessing my clients from head to toe. I can assess their functional mobility, strength, speed, and agility. I can get a holistic view of how their body functions and identify where the dysfunction lies. From there, I can work on their problem areas, which helps them reduce any compensation they do during a sport or activity. Furthermore, this helps prevent future injuries.
A good example of this is my Junior Golfer client. He came to my clinic complaining about lower back and neck pain after playing golf. He enrolled in my Golf Performance Program, where I used the MAT assessment to thoroughly assess his mobility, strength, agility, and flexibility. The MAT assessment tool helped me identify differences in hip rotational mobility, power, and agility between the left and right sides. Additionally, the prone hip internal rotation range of motion was also checked using an inclinometer app.
Left and right side hip mobility range
Based on the results, I was able to help him improve his mobility with manual mobilization, asymmetric core activity, hip mobility, single-leg jumps, and single-leg agility. To monitor his progress, we repeatedly retest the assessment items, such as hip mobility and single-leg hop. Because we correctly identified the cause of his lower back and neck pain and prescribed the appropriate exercises, he no longer suffers from back or neck pain, and there’s no popping sound in his hip.
MAT Assessment Results:
Functional internal rotation: Initial: Left 34deg; and R: 42deg;
Post-treatment after six weeks: Left: 42deg, and R: 45deg
This client is a perfect example of why it’s so important to implement the MAT assessment in your clinic. I use this assessment with all my clients, both my Golf Performance and my Physical Therapy clients, and I have seen amazing results across the board. Schedule your consultation today!
