Balance Error Scoring System

 

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Objective

The Balance Error Scoring System is an objective measure of assessing static postural stability (designed for the mild head injury population, to assist in return to sports play decisions).

Intended Population

Those diagnosed with concussion, mild traumatic brain injury, vestibular disorders

Method of Use

Equipment Required:

• Foam pad
• Stopwatch
• An assistant to act as a spotter
• BESS testing protocol (instructions to be read to subject during testing)
• BESS score card

Description:

• 6 conditions each tested barefoot, eyes closed for 20 seconds each:

Double leg stance (feet together) – firm / foam surfaces
Single leg stance (non-dominant foot) – firm / foam surfaces
Tandem stance (non-dominant foot in back) – firm / foam

• Score of 0-60 (lower scores indicate better balance and less errors).
• Each trial is scored by counting errors (deviations from the proper stance). If multiple errors occur at the same time, only one is counted. The maximum number of errors for a single condition is 10.
• Errors include moving hands off of iliac crests, opening eyes, step stumble or fall, abduction or flexion of the hip beyond 30 degrees, lifting forefoot or heel off testing surface, remaining out of the proper testing position for > 5 seconds.
• Number of errors in each trial are added together to obtain a total score (out of 60).
• Read instructions to subject as they are written in the testing protocol.

References

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