What are Balance Tests?
Balance tests are tests used to evaluate a person’s balance ability. This can help determine risks of falls and provide insight into the stability of musculoskeletal system. Balance tests can provide a baseline measurement of an individual’s balance ability and serve as a reference point for tracking progress in balance and mobility. It is important for healthcare providers and physical therapists to monitor a patient’s balance over time, especially after the patient has undergone some type of balance related intervention.
Preparation for Balance Tests
Before starting a balance test, it is important to become familiar with the testing environment and the purpose of each test. It is also important that patients are aware of the importance of balance and should be allowed to ask questions prior to starting a balance assessment. During the test, it is important to provide the patient with encouragement and verbal instructions throughout the test.
Procedure for Balance Tests
Balance tests should be administered in a safe environment with proper surface and padding. The patient should be asked to stand with their feet shoulder-width apart and use a standardized hand grip if needed. The physical therapist or healthcare provider should note any movement or swaying as the patient stands motionless and keep their eyes on the patient at all times.
The patient should be asked to maintain the start position and instructed to slowly close their eyes and sway in the frontal, sagittal, and transverse planes. The therapist should be noting any changes in the position of the patient’s feet and body. When the test has been completed the patient should be allowed to slowly open their eyes and regain their footing.
Types of Balance Tests
There are several types of balance tests that can be used to evaluate a patient’s balance abilities. These tests range from simple clinical tests to more complex laboratory tests. Some examples of balance tests include:
- Timed Stance: A measure of how long a patient can stand with their feet together without support.
- Stability Limits Test: A measure of how far a patient can lean in different directions without losing their balance.
- Limits of Stability Test: A measure of how far a patient can move in different directions without losing their balance.
- Dynamic Tests: Tests that require the patient to move through patterns such as circles and figure 8s while maintaining balance.
- Computerized Posturography: A measure of a patient’s balance response to different types of perturbations and environments.
Each test provides different information and have different use cases. It is important for a healthcare provider or physical therapist to assess the patient’s medical history and current physical condition to determine which balance tests should be used.
Risks of Balance Tests
Balance tests are generally considered to be safe, however there are some risks associated with them. Patients should be aware of the risk of falls or injuries when performing balance tests. As such, the patient should be instructed to remain in a safe area and wear appropriate protective equipment when necessary.
Patients should also be aware of the potential for dizziness or lightheadedness when starting or stopping a balance test. It is important to provide patients with instructions on how to reduce this risk.
Why Perform Balance Tests?
Balance tests are an important tool for healthcare providers and physical therapists when assessing a patient's balance ability. Balance tests provide a reference point for tracking changes in balance and mobility over time. They can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of balance related interventions.
When to Perform Balance Tests?
Balance tests should be performed at the initial evaluation of a patient and periodically throughout a patient’s treatment. It is important for healthcare providers and physical therapists to monitor a patient’s balance over time, especially after the patient has undergone some type of balance related intervention.