J Korean Acad Rehabil Med.  2002 Dec;26(6):647-651.

Evaluation of Standing Balance in Hemiplegic Patients Using the Functional Reach Test

• Lee KM
• Kang JW
• Han SH

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To examine the validity of the fuctional reach test (FRT) for evaluation of standing balance in hemiplegic patients. METHOD: Twenty three hemiplegic patients who were capable of standing without assistive devices were assessed on the FRT only with intact upper limb, the one-legged stance, the timed up and go test (TUG), the 10 meter walking time (10 mWT), the 'Hauser' ambulation index (AI), and the standing balance of Bohannon.
RESULTS
The forward reach of FRT demonstrated significant correlation with the TUG and the 10 mWT (p<0.01), but no significant relationship with the one-legged stance, standing balance of Bohannon and AI.
CONCLUSION
The forward reach of FRT may be simple and useful tool for assessing the clinical balance function and reflecting gait ability and fall-down risk in hemiplegic patients.

Keyword

Standing balance; Hemiplegic gait; Functional reach; Balance measurement

MeSH Terms

Gait
Gait Disorders, Neurologic
Humans
Self-Help Devices
Upper Extremity
Walking