The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is a tool used to measure balance and mobility in individuals. It is commonly used to assess the risk of falls in elderly individuals, as well as to measure progress in physical therapy. The BBS is a standardized test, and is performed by a healthcare provider such as a physical therapist or occupational therapist.
What should I expect before the test?
Before the test, you should expect to be asked questions about your medical history and any current medications you are taking. You should also expect to be asked about any recent falls or balance issues you have experienced.
How do you do a Berg balance scale test?
During the test, you will be asked to perform a series of balance-related tasks, such as standing on one foot, walking heel-to-toe, and standing up from a chair. The healthcare provider will observe your performance and rate your ability to complete each task on a scale of 0-4.
What can I expect during the Berg balance scale test?
During the test, you should expect to be asked to perform a series of balance-related tasks. The healthcare provider will observe your performance and rate your ability to complete each task on a scale of 0-4.
What should I expect after the test?
After the test, you should expect to receive a score that reflects your overall balance and mobility. The score is based on the total number of points you earned on the tasks.
How long does the Berg balance scale test take?
The Berg balance scale test typically takes about 15 minutes to complete.
Is the Berg balance scale standardized?
Yes, the Berg balance scale is a standardized test. It is used to measure balance and mobility in individuals and is commonly used to assess the risk of falls in elderly individuals, as well as to measure progress in physical therapy.
What do Berg balance scale scores mean?
Berg balance scale scores are used to measure balance and mobility in individuals. A higher score indicates better balance and mobility, while a lower score indicates poorer balance and mobility.
When should I know the results of the test?
You should expect to receive the results of the test immediately after it is completed.
When should I call my healthcare provider?
You should call your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about the results of the test.
References
- Berg, K. O., Wood-Dauphinee, S. L., Williams, J. I., & Maki, B. (1992). The balance scale: Reliability assessment with elderly residents and patients with an acute stroke. Scandinavian journal of rehabilitation medicine, 24(1), 27-36.
- Gillespie, L. D., Robertson, M. C., Gillespie, W. J., Sherrington, C., Gates, S., Clemson, L. M., & Lamb, S. E. (2012). Interventions for preventing falls in older people living in the community. The Cochrane Library.
- Kerrigan, D. C., Todd, C., Lachman, M. E., & Jette, A. M. (2000). The Berg Balance Scale as a predictor of falls in community-dwelling elderly persons. Physical therapy, 80(7), 696-703.
Keywords: Berg Balance Scale, BBS, balance test, physical therapy, falls risk, elderly.