Stair Climb Test (SCT)
Original Editor - Kalyani Yajnanarayan
Top Contributors - Kalyani Yajnanarayan, Stacy Lawrence and Vidya Acharya
Purpose
The Stair Climb Test (also known as the Stair Climb Power Test) evaluates an individual's ability to ascend and descend a flight of stairs, thereby measuring lower-limb strength, power and functional capacity. Various adaptations have been developed across different patient populations to enhance specificity and clinical relevance.[1]
Technique
Time frame to complete: ~ 2 mins to complete and score[1]
Equipment needed:
- Staircase 3-12 steps, 16-20 cm rise per step
- Timing device: Stopwatch or electronic timer
- A single handrail
- Optional: chair for patient to rest, gait belt for additional safety
Instruction to patient:
"Stand at the base / bottom of the stairs so your first step is up. On the command 'Go' walk as QUICKLY & SAFELY as you can to the top, turn and return to start / base. Time ends when your second foot lands on the start / base. You may use one handrail - if you can manage without, do so."
Therapist protocol:
- Provide one practice trial followed by two (2) times trails.
- Record the mean time across the two.
- Use uniform stair configuration (step height ~16-20cm; often 9-12 steps)