Which process evaluates mobility and is the first element in the Mobility → Motor control → Functional patterning framework?

• A. Movement Evaluation
• B. Mobility Analysis
• C. Postural Evaluation
• D. Gait Assessment

Answer: (A)

Movement Evaluation is about examining how freely and effectively a body part can move, including joint range of motion, tissue extensibility, and the ability to initiate and control movement across planes. In the Mobility → Motor control → Functional patterning sequence, mobility is the starting point, so you assess it first to know what mobility is available before addressing how to control movement or how to pattern functional tasks. This evaluation identifies restrictions and compensations that will shape subsequent motor control strategies and functional training.

Other options don’t fit as the initial step in this framework. Postural evaluation focuses on static alignment rather than dynamic mobility. Gait assessment looks at how someone walks, a functional pattern that comes after mobility and motor control are established. Mobility analysis isn’t the standard term used for the initial mobility assessment in this framework.