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Published on: January 30, 2018
Normative data for the balance error scoring system: implications for brain injury evaluations
Grant L Iverson1, Michelle L Kaarto, Michael S Koehle
1Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada. giverson@interchange.ubc.ca
Brain Injury
|February 2, 2008
Summary
The Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) shows declining performance after age 50 in healthy adults. These new normative data aid in interpreting balance test results for various populations.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biomechanics
- Gerontology
Background:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can cause balance deficits.
- The Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) assesses static balance and is recommended for TBI assessment.
- Current BESS use is limited by a lack of normative data for healthy adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish normative reference values for the BESS in healthy adults across different age groups.
- To provide data for interpreting BESS performance in clinical and military settings.
Main Methods:
- Administered the BESS to 589 community-dwelling adults aged 20-69.
- Excluded participants with medical, neurological, or lower extremity issues affecting balance.
Main Results:
- BESS performance showed minimal correlation with height, weight, waist girth, and BMI.
- Gender did not significantly impact BESS scores.
- Balance performance remained stable until the 50s, then declined with age.
Conclusions:
- The study provides essential normative data for the BESS across the adult lifespan.
- These reference values enhance the clinical utility of the BESS for TBI patients and individuals with neurological conditions.
