Balance-related efficacy compared with balance function in patients with acute stroke

It is well known that patients who have suffered a stroke have problems with balance and have feelings of unsteadiness. The aim of this study was to analyse the correlation between how patients estimate their perceived confidence in task performance without falling and the objective assessment of balance made by a physiotherapist, and whether the Falls Efficacy Scale (FES(S)) is to be recommended for use in patients in the acute phase of stroke. Sixty patients divided into two groups assessed their belief to perform daily life activities without fear of falling using the FES(S) and were assessed by using the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Timed Up and Go (TUG) by a physiotherapist. Group 1 assessed themselves before, whereas Group 2 assessed themselves after the objective assessment. The correlation between the FES(S) and the TUG was moderate to good, but these two scales consider different aspects and dimensions of balance, ability, and belief and are therefore not interchangeable. The correlation between FES(S) and BBS was low to moderate. The conclusion of this study was that the FES(S) is not to be recommended as a single measurement in the acute phase of stroke because it does not measure actual balance function.