Four-Stage Balance Test

Aka: Four-Stage Balance Test, 4-Stage Balance Test

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II. Indications

  1. Fall Prevention in the Elderly

III. Technique

  1. Patient performs static balance testing using 4 foot positions
  2. Hold each of the four positions for 10 seconds each
    1. Feet together (side by side)
    2. Feet together with one foot a few inches in front of the other (one foot instep touches other foot great toe)
    3. Tandem stance (one foot directly in front of the other, heel touching toe)
    4. Single leg stance (stand on one foot)

IV. Interpretation

  1. Loss of balance on any of the 4 positions (esp. tandem stance) is positive for increased Fall Risk

V. Resources

  1. 4-Stage Balance Test (Physiopedia)
    1. https://www.physio-pedia.com/The_4-Stage_Balance_Test

VI. References

  1. Coulter (2024) Am Fam Physician 109(5): 447-56 [PubMed]

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