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Human movement is a complex behavior within a specific context.
The movement system is the integration of body systems that generate and maintain movement at all levels of bodily function. Human movement is a complex behavior within a specific context, and is influenced by social, environmental, and personal factors.
Movement System Timeline

Movement System Diagnoses
In response to House of Delegates action (Management of the Movement System (HOD P06-15-25-24)), which states: "APTA endorses the development of diagnostic labels and/or classification systems that reflect and contribute to the physical therapists' ability to properly and effectively manage disorders of the movement system."
The APTA Board of Directors adopted a set of criteria to be used by any interested parties developing diagnostic systems/labels:
- Use recognized movement-related terms to describe the condition or syndrome of the movement system.
- Include, if necessary, the name of the pathology, disease, disorder, anatomical or physiological terms, and stage of recovery associated with the movement diagnosis.
- Be as succinct and direct as possible to improve clinical usefulness.
- Strive for movement system diagnoses that span all populations, health conditions, and the lifespan. Whenever possible, use similar movement-related terms to describe similar movements, regardless of pathology or other characteristics of the patient or client.
Download the Movement System Diagnosis Template
Interested parties are pursuing the development of movement system diagnoses. Some examples are:
The Case for Developing a Movement System Framework for Older Adults
Overview of the Movement System Framework for Pediatric Physical Therapist Practice Fact Sheet
Additional Test Sub Landing Content
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Sep 15, 2025 / Article
Sep 2, 2025 / News
Aug 25, 2025 / News
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Intense collisions, complex injuries, and no pads: Why physical therapy is essential to the sport of rugby — and what it teaches us about recovery.
Aug 1, 2025 / Feature
What PTs need to know about working with patients taking glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists.
Jul 1, 2025 / Feature
Hospital-level care is moving into patients’ homes — and PTs are helping lead the way in this evolving model.
Jun 2, 2025 / Perspective
Members of APTA Oncology share information and resources about Cancer Rehabilitation Month, a new public awareness campaign.
May 1, 2025 / Column
One PT shares a different perspective on embracing activities typically associated with children.
May 1, 2025 / Feature
Terry Nordstrom, PT, EdD, FAPTA, called on the profession to reduce the impact of health disparities.