What is the primary focus of the overhead deep squat assessment?

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The overhead deep squat assessment primarily evaluates how well you move through a full squat with arms raised overhead, focusing on depth you can reach, how the spine and joints align, and any compensatory patterns that emerge. This test looks for how the hips, knees, ankles, thoracic spine, and shoulders work together to achieve a stable, symmetrical squat, including whether you can maintain a neutral spine, keep the heels down, and prevent knee valgus or excessive forward trunk lean. These observations help identify mobility or motor-control limitations that could affect performance or injury risk. It’s not about running mechanics, it doesn’t screen for ankle sprains specifically, and it doesn’t measure leg length.