Physiotherapy

Berg Balance Scale (BBS)

Measures balance and fall risk in older adults and stroke rehabilitation.

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Parameters

1. Sitting to Standing*

2. Standing Unsupported (for 2 minutes)*

3. Sitting Unsupported (Feet on floor for 2 minutes)*

4. Standing to Sitting*

5. Transfers (Chair to Bed and back)*

6. Standing Unsupported with Eyes Closed (10 seconds)*

7. Standing Unsupported with Feet Together (1 minute)*

8. Reaching Forward with Outstretched Arm*

9. Picking up Object from Floor from Standing Position*

10. Turning to Look Behind over Left and Right Shoulders*

11. Turn 360 Degrees*

12. Placing Alternate Foot on Step / Stool (8 total steps)*

13. Standing Unsupported One Foot in Front (Tandem)*

14. Standing on One Leg (Single Limb Stance)*

Berg Balance Scale (BBS) Result

FormulaSum of 14 balance performance tasks scored 0 to 4 points each (Total 0 - 56 points)

Clinical Pearls

The premier clinical test used in rehabilitation to monitor recovery after stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury, and orthopedic joint replacements.

Limitations

Demonstrates a ceiling effect in higher-functioning community-dwelling older adults; does not evaluate gait speed or outdoor uneven terrain.