Berg Balance Scale (BBS)

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Berg Balance Scale (BBS)

The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is the name of a clinical test which determines the static and balance abilities of the participant. Healthcare professionals will often administer the BBS test prior prescribing treatment for elderly individuals or patients with a history in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular disease and multiple sclerosis.

BBS comprises of 14 simple tests, including things such as standing up from a sitting position, or standing up on one foot, which are rated on a scale of 0 (unable) to 4 (independent).

Most of the tests in the scale ask the subjects to maintain a particular position for a specific amount of time with points be deducted if the time is not met, the subject requires supervision, or if the subject touches an external support.

In order to carry out the 14 tests within the scale, the following equipment is needed: a ruler, 2 standard chairs, a footstool, a 15ft walkway, and a stopwatch.

The final measure of the scale test is the sum of these constituent parts which fall into three sections: <20 = wheelchair bound; >20<40 = walking with assistance; and finally, >40<56 independent.

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