Balance Tests & Measures

What does the Berg Balance Scale assess?

• Fall risk

• 14 tasks

• Each scored 0–4

• Maximum score = 56

• Score <45 → increased fall risk

What does the Functional Reach Test assess?

• Standing balance

• Fall risk

• Measures maximum forward reach

• Feet remain stationary

• Three trials averaged

What are the age-related norms for the Functional Reach Test?

• 20–40 years → 14.5–17 inches

• 41–69 years → 13.5–15 inches

• 70–87 years → 10.5–13.5 inches

• Below age-appropriate range → increased fall risk

What is the Romberg test used to assess?

• Balance

• Ataxia

• Interaction of:

  • Visual system

  • Vestibular system

  • Somatosensory system

How is the Romberg test performed?

• Unsupported standing

• Feet together

• Arms folded

• Look straight ahead

• First test eyes open

• Then test eyes closed

What does a positive Romberg test suggest?

• Increased sway or loss of balance with eyes closed

• Suggests sensory ataxia

• Indicates vestibular or somatosensory impairment

• Does NOT typically indicate cerebellar ataxia

What is the Sharpened Romberg test?

• More challenging version of Romberg

• Heel-to-toe/tandem stance

• Tested:

  • Eyes open

  • Eyes closed

• Increases challenge to vestibular and somatosensory systems

What does the Timed Up and Go (TUG) assess?

• Functional mobility

• Balance

• Fall risk

How is the Timed Up and Go performed?

• Begin seated in chair

• Stand up

• Walk approximately 10 feet

• Turn around

• Walk back

• Sit down

What are important TUG cutoff times?

• ≤10 sec → independent

  • 20 sec → functional independence may be limited

• ≥30 sec → high fall risk

What does the Tinetti Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment assess?

• Balance

• Gait

• Fall risk

• Maximum total score = 28

• Score <19 → high fall risk

What does the Fugl-Meyer Sensorimotor Assessment of Balance assess?

• Balance in patients with hemiplegia

• 7 items

• Each item scored 0–2

• Maximum score = 14