Citation

Sibley KM, Beauchamp MK, Van Ooteghem K, Straus SE, Jaglal SB. Arch. Phys. Med. Rehabil. 2014; 96(1): 122-132.e29.

Affiliation

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute- University Health Network; Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto. Electronic address: susan.jaglal@utoronto.ca.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.apmr.2014.06.021

PMID

25073007

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To identify components of postural control included in standardized balance measures for adult populations. DATA SOURCES: Electronic searches of Medline, Embase, and CINAHL databases using key word combinations of postural balance/ equilibrium, psychometrics/ reproducibility of results/ predictive value of tests/ validation studies, instrument construction/ instrument validation, geriatric assessment/ disability evaluation, grey literature and hand searches. STUDY SELECTION: Inclusion criteria were measures with a stated objective to assess balance, adult populations (aged 18 years and over), at least one psychometric evaluation, one standing task, a standardized protocol and evaluation criteria, and published in English. Two reviewers independently identified studies for inclusion. Sixty-six measures were included. DATA EXTRACTION: A research assistant extracted descriptive characteristics and two reviewers independently coded components of balance in each measure using the Systems Framework for Postural Control, a widely recognized model of balance. DATA SYNTHESIS: Components of balance evaluated in these measures were underlying motor systems (100% of measures), anticipatory postural control (71%), dynamic stability (67%), static stability (64%), sensory integration (48%), functional stability limits (27%), reactive postural control (23%), cognitive influences (17%), and verticality (8%). Thirty-four measures evaluated three or fewer components of balance, and one measure, the Balance Evaluations Systems Test, evaluated all components of balance.

CONCLUSIONS: Several standardized balance measures provide only partial information on postural control and omit important components of balance related to avoiding falls. As such, the choice of measure(s) may limit the overall interpretation of an individual's balance ability. Continued work is necessary to increase implementation of comprehensive balance assessment in research and practice.

Language: en