Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
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Measuring the Functional Abilities of Children Aged 3-6 Years Old with Observational Methods and Computer Tools
Published on: June 20, 2020
Factors affecting functional reach scores in youth with typical development
Kathleen G Volkman1, Nicholas Stergiou, Wayne Stuberg
1Physical Therapy Education, Munroe-Meyer Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-4420, USA. kvolkman@unmc.edu
Summary
The Functional Reach Test
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Physical Therapy
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- The Functional Reach Test (FRT) is a common clinical tool to assess balance and predict fall risk.
- Standardized methods are crucial for reliable FRT results, but variations exist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how different measurement methods and subject characteristics influence Functional Reach Test scores.
- To determine the optimal FRT protocol for specific populations.
Main Methods:
- Eighty participants aged 7–16 years were assessed using the FRT.
- Two measurement methods (finger-to-finger vs. toe-to-finger) and two reach styles (one vs. two arms) were compared.
- Interactions between FRT methods and subject characteristics (age, height, base of support) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Significant interactions were found between measurement method and reach style.
- Method interactions were significant for age, height, and base of support.
- FRT scores increased with participant height, particularly with the toe-to-finger method.
Conclusions:
- Both the method of reach and measurement technique significantly impact FRT outcomes.
- Height stratification is recommended for FRT's discriminative use, especially with the toe-to-finger approach.
