Four Square Step Test: Difference between revisions
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== Objective == | == Objective == | ||
The Four Square Step Test (FSST) is used to assess dynamic stability and the ability of the subject to step over low objects forward, sideways, and backward.<ref>Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. Rehabilitation measure: four square step test. [https://www.sralab.org/rehabilitation-measures/four-step-square-test www.sralab.org/rehabilitation-measures/four-step-square-test] (accessed 12 March 2018).</ref> | The Four Square Step Test (FSST) is used to assess dynamic stability and co-ordination. It looks at the ability of the subject to step over low objects forward, sideways, and backward.<ref>Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. Rehabilitation measure: four square step test. [https://www.sralab.org/rehabilitation-measures/four-step-square-test www.sralab.org/rehabilitation-measures/four-step-square-test] (accessed 12 March 2018).</ref> | ||
== Intended Population == | == Intended Population == | ||
* Older adults | * [[Older People - An Introduction|Older adults]] | ||
* Stroke | * [[Stroke]] | ||
* Parkinson's | * [[Parkinson's]] | ||
* Vestibular Disorders | * [[Vestibular Pathologies|Vestibular Disorders]] | ||
* Limb Loss/Amputation | * Limb Loss/[[Amputations|Amputation]] | ||
== Method of Use == | == Method of Use == | ||
[[File:FSST.gif|alt=|thumb|369x369px|FSST]] | |||
Test Description: | Test Description: | ||
* The subject is required to sequentially step over four canes set-up in a cross configuration on the ground. | * The subject is required to sequentially step over four canes set-up in a cross configuration on the ground. | ||
| Line 25: | Line 24: | ||
* Two trials are then performed, and the better time (in seconds) is taken as the score. | * Two trials are then performed, and the better time (in seconds) is taken as the score. | ||
* Timing starts when the first foot contacts the floor in Square 2 and finishes when the last foot comes back to touch the floor in Square 1. | * Timing starts when the first foot contacts the floor in Square 2 and finishes when the last foot comes back to touch the floor in Square 1. | ||
* Instructions: “Try to complete the sequence as fast and as safely as possible without touching the sticks. Both feet must make contact with the floor in each square. If possible, face forward during the entire sequence.”<ref>Dite W, Temple VA. A clinical test of stepping and change of direction to identify multiple falling older adults. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2002 Nov 1;83(11):1566-71.</ref><ref>Blennerhassett JM, Jayalath VM. The Four Square Step Test is a feasible and valid clinical test of dynamic standing balance for use in ambulant people poststroke. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2008 Nov 1;89(11):2156-61.</ref> | * Instructions: “Try to complete the sequence as fast and as safely as possible without touching the sticks. Both feet must make contact with the floor in each square. If possible, face forward during the entire sequence.”<ref>Dite W, Temple VA. [https://scholar.google.com/scholar_url?url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003999302002538&hl=en&sa=T&oi=gsb&ct=res&cd=0&d=12002016453994495597&ei=3YgpZMG6EomZygTk3bHIBA&scisig=AJ9-iYuX7-wr-KGo-ugeM3mZ-97x A clinical test of stepping and change of direction to identify multiple falling older adults.] Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2002 Nov 1;83(11):1566-71.</ref><ref>Blennerhassett JM, Jayalath VM. The Four Square Step Test is a feasible and valid clinical test of dynamic standing balance for use in ambulant people poststroke. [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0003999308007879 Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation]. 2008 Nov 1;89(11):2156-61.</ref> | ||
* Repeat a trial if the subject: | * Repeat a trial if the subject: | ||
** Fails to complete the sequence successfully | ** Fails to complete the sequence successfully | ||
** Loses | ** Loses [[balance]] | ||
** Makes contact with the cane | ** Makes contact with the cane | ||
* Subjects who are unable to face forward during the entire sequence may turn before stepping into the next square and are timed accordingly. | * Subjects who are unable to face forward during the entire sequence may turn before stepping into the next square and are timed accordingly. | ||
* Any assistive device used during the test are noted down accordingly. | * Any [[Assistive Devices|assistive device]] used during the test are noted down accordingly. | ||
{{#ev:youtube|doaPhh3KJHM}} | {{#ev:youtube|doaPhh3KJHM}} | ||
== Equipment == | == Equipment == | ||
* Stopwatch | * Stopwatch | ||
* 4 canes/ rods (approximately 100cm in length and 2.5cm in diameter<ref>McKee KE, Hackney ME. The Four Square Step Test in individuals with Parkinson's: Association with executive function and comparison with older adults. NeuroRehabilitation. 2014 Jan 1;35(2):279-89.</ref>) | * 4 canes/ rods (approximately 100cm in length and 2.5cm in diameter<ref>McKee KE, Hackney ME. The Four Square Step Test in individuals with Parkinson's: [https://scholar.google.com/scholar_url?url=https://content.iospress.com/articles/neurorehabilitation/nre1122&hl=en&sa=T&oi=gsb&ct=res&cd=0&d=4402789006173079596&ei=a4kpZMy7OZaO6rQP_saLoAk&scisig=AJ9-iYu52pLQwV_cdofytxHk_l-7 Association with executive function and comparison with older adults]. NeuroRehabilitation. 2014 Jan 1;35(2):279-89.</ref>) | ||
== Time to Administer == | == Time to Administer == | ||
Less than five minutes | Less than five minutes | ||
== Cut-off scores == | |||
# Older adults/geriatrics: > 15 seconds = increased risk of falls | |||
# Stroke: > 15 seconds or failed attempt = increased risk of [[falls]] | |||
# Parkinson's: > 9.68 seconds = increased risk of falls | |||
# Vestibular Disorders: > 12 seconds = increased risk of falls | |||
# Limb Loss/Amputation: > 24 seconds = at risk for fall | |||
== Evidence == | == Evidence == | ||
The FSST may be an effective and valid tool for measuring dynamic balance and the subject's fall risk. It has been shown to have strong correlations with other measures of balance and mobility with good reliability shown in a number of populations.<ref>Moore M, Barker K. The validity and reliability of the four square step test in different adult populations: a systematic review. Systematic reviews. 2017 Dec;6(1):187. https:// | The FSST may be an effective and valid tool for measuring dynamic balance and the subject's fall risk. It has been shown to have strong correlations with other measures of balance and mobility with good reliability shown in a number of populations.<ref>Moore M, Barker K. [https://systematicreviewsjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13643-017-0577-5 The validity and reliability of the four square step test in different adult populations: a systematic review.] Systematic reviews. 2017 Dec;6(1):187.(accessed 12 March 2018).</ref> A recent study showed a stronger relationship between [[Gait Deviations|gait]] and balance disorder and [[Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA)|TIA]]/minor stroke, which was measured by logistic regression analysis of six measurements (Four Square Step [OR, 24.07; 95% CI 5.90–98.13; p<0.001], Tandem, Functional Reach, Gait and Pivot Turn, Timed “Up and Go”, and Single Leg Balance tests).<ref>Li N, Li J, Gao T, Wang D, Du Y, Zhao X. [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7868302/ Gait and balance disorder in patients with transient ischemic attack or minor stroke.] Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment. 2021;17:305.</ref> | ||
== Reliability == | |||
'''Older adults/geriatrics''' | |||
* Excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.98) | * Excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.98) | ||
* Excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.99) | * Excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.99)<ref>Dite W, Temple VA. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12422327/ A clinical test of stepping and change of direction to identify multiple falling older adults]. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2002 Nov 1;83(11):1566-71.</ref> | ||
'''Parkinson's''' | |||
* Excellent reliability on medication (ICC = 0.78) | * Excellent reliability on medication (ICC = 0.78) | ||
* Excellent reliability off medication (ICC = 0.90) | * Excellent reliability off medication (ICC = 0.90) | ||
* Excellent inter rater reliability (ICC = 0.99 | * Excellent inter rater reliability (ICC = 0.99)<ref>Duncan RP, Earhart GM. [https://scholar.google.com/scholar_url?url=https://journals.lww.com/jnpt/fulltext/2013/03000/Four_Square_Step_Test_Performance_in_People_With.2.aspx&hl=en&sa=T&oi=gsb&ct=res&cd=0&d=6082123994176831726&ei=-4kpZOLiKenCywTF0JqoCg&scisig=AJ9-iYsaJUwilUGsrwXPsq18wjrb Four square step test performance in people with Parkinson disease.] Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy. 2013 Mar 1;37(1):2-8.</ref> | ||
'''Vestibular Disorders''' | |||
* > | * Excellent test retest reliability (ICC = 0.93)<span style="font-size: 20px; font-weight: normal;" class="Apple-style-span"></span><ref>Whitney SL, Marchetti GF, Morris LO, Sparto PJ. [https://scholar.google.com/scholar_url?url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0003999306014365&hl=en&sa=T&oi=gsb&ct=res&cd=0&d=5817061701829126029&ei=F4opZIfCD_iH6rQPpJOoiAc&scisig=AJ9-iYuJNfwo_qEiN8KLsEBhv_pQ The reliability and validity of the Four Square Step Test for people with balance deficits secondary to a vestibular disorder]. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2007 Jan 1;88(1):99-104.</ref> | ||
== Resources == | |||
[https://www.sralab.org/rehabilitation-measures/four-square-step-test Rehabilitation Measure Database- Four Square Step Test] | |||
== References == | == References == | ||
| Line 90: | Line 77: | ||
[[Category:Neurological - Special Tests]] | [[Category:Neurological - Special Tests]] | ||
[[Category:Amputee - Special Tests]] | [[Category:Amputee - Special Tests]] | ||
[[Category:Vestibular - Assessment and Examination]] | |||
[[Category:Stroke - Assessment and Examination]] | |||
[[Category:Parkinson's]] | |||
[[Category:Balance - Special Tests]] | |||
Latest revision as of 15:49, 2 April 2023
Original Editor - Candace Goh
Top Contributors - Candace Goh, Kim Jackson, Lucinda hampton, Vidya Acharya, George Prudden and Chelsea Mclene
Objective[edit | edit source]
The Four Square Step Test (FSST) is used to assess dynamic stability and co-ordination. It looks at the ability of the subject to step over low objects forward, sideways, and backward.[1]
Intended Population[edit | edit source]
Method of Use[edit | edit source]
Test Description:
- The subject is required to sequentially step over four canes set-up in a cross configuration on the ground.
- At the start of the test, the subject stands in Square 1 facing Square 2.
- The aim is to step as fast as possible into each square with both feet in the following sequence: Square 2, 3, 4, 1, 4, 3, 2, 1 (clockwise to counterclockwise)
- Test procedure may be demonstrated, one practice trial is allowed prior to administering the test.
- Two trials are then performed, and the better time (in seconds) is taken as the score.
- Timing starts when the first foot contacts the floor in Square 2 and finishes when the last foot comes back to touch the floor in Square 1.
- Instructions: “Try to complete the sequence as fast and as safely as possible without touching the sticks. Both feet must make contact with the floor in each square. If possible, face forward during the entire sequence.”[2][3]
- Repeat a trial if the subject:
- Fails to complete the sequence successfully
- Loses balance
- Makes contact with the cane
- Subjects who are unable to face forward during the entire sequence may turn before stepping into the next square and are timed accordingly.
- Any assistive device used during the test are noted down accordingly.
Equipment[edit | edit source]
- Stopwatch
- 4 canes/ rods (approximately 100cm in length and 2.5cm in diameter[4])
Time to Administer[edit | edit source]
Less than five minutes
Cut-off scores[edit | edit source]
- Older adults/geriatrics: > 15 seconds = increased risk of falls
- Stroke: > 15 seconds or failed attempt = increased risk of falls
- Parkinson's: > 9.68 seconds = increased risk of falls
- Vestibular Disorders: > 12 seconds = increased risk of falls
- Limb Loss/Amputation: > 24 seconds = at risk for fall
Evidence[edit | edit source]
The FSST may be an effective and valid tool for measuring dynamic balance and the subject's fall risk. It has been shown to have strong correlations with other measures of balance and mobility with good reliability shown in a number of populations.[5] A recent study showed a stronger relationship between gait and balance disorder and TIA/minor stroke, which was measured by logistic regression analysis of six measurements (Four Square Step [OR, 24.07; 95% CI 5.90–98.13; p<0.001], Tandem, Functional Reach, Gait and Pivot Turn, Timed “Up and Go”, and Single Leg Balance tests).[6]
Reliability[edit | edit source]
Older adults/geriatrics
- Excellent test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.98)
- Excellent inter-rater reliability (ICC = 0.99)[7]
Parkinson's
- Excellent reliability on medication (ICC = 0.78)
- Excellent reliability off medication (ICC = 0.90)
- Excellent inter rater reliability (ICC = 0.99)[8]
Vestibular Disorders
- Excellent test retest reliability (ICC = 0.93)[9]
Resources[edit | edit source]
Rehabilitation Measure Database- Four Square Step Test
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. Rehabilitation measure: four square step test. www.sralab.org/rehabilitation-measures/four-step-square-test (accessed 12 March 2018).
- ↑ Dite W, Temple VA. A clinical test of stepping and change of direction to identify multiple falling older adults. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2002 Nov 1;83(11):1566-71.
- ↑ Blennerhassett JM, Jayalath VM. The Four Square Step Test is a feasible and valid clinical test of dynamic standing balance for use in ambulant people poststroke. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2008 Nov 1;89(11):2156-61.
- ↑ McKee KE, Hackney ME. The Four Square Step Test in individuals with Parkinson's: Association with executive function and comparison with older adults. NeuroRehabilitation. 2014 Jan 1;35(2):279-89.
- ↑ Moore M, Barker K. The validity and reliability of the four square step test in different adult populations: a systematic review. Systematic reviews. 2017 Dec;6(1):187.(accessed 12 March 2018).
- ↑ Li N, Li J, Gao T, Wang D, Du Y, Zhao X. Gait and balance disorder in patients with transient ischemic attack or minor stroke. Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment. 2021;17:305.
- ↑ Dite W, Temple VA. A clinical test of stepping and change of direction to identify multiple falling older adults. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2002 Nov 1;83(11):1566-71.
- ↑ Duncan RP, Earhart GM. Four square step test performance in people with Parkinson disease. Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy. 2013 Mar 1;37(1):2-8.
- ↑ Whitney SL, Marchetti GF, Morris LO, Sparto PJ. The reliability and validity of the Four Square Step Test for people with balance deficits secondary to a vestibular disorder. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation. 2007 Jan 1;88(1):99-104.
