Define a Berg Balance Scale
The Berg Balance Scale is a test that was originally developed to determine the ability of the elderly to keep their balance. There are 14 steps that must be completed. The results are based on how long it takes to complete specific tests and how well the tests are performed. Each test is rated on a scale of 0 points to 4 points.
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History
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In 1989, the Berg Balance Scale was created by Katherine Berg. Katherine completed her study on 183 elderly individuals over a period of 64 weeks; 70 of those individuals were stroke victims. The scale was a success in determining the ability to maintain balance and the need for mobility aids.
Tools Used for Assessing Balance
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Tools that are used for determining a patient's ability to maintain physical balance are simple but provide very accurate results. All that is needed to complete this test is a step, measuring device such as a ruler, two chairs -- one without armrests and one with armrests, a watch or stopwatch, and a minimum of 15 feet of walking space.
Tests
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Tests are performed on an individual's ability to maintain balance in a variety of positions. These positions include: standing from a sitting position and sitting from a standing position, being able to sit with no help, closing eyes while standing, placing feet together while standing, reaching forward as far as possible, picking up an object off of the floor, being able to turn and look back, turning completely around, placing a foot on a step, putting one foot out in front of the body, balancing on one foot, standing without support, and transferring from one position to another.
Performance
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Each part of the test is rated on a scale of 0 to 4 points. The maximum amount of points that can be obtained is 56. If an individual receives a score of 0 to 20, it indicates that person cannot maintain physical balance and is bound to a wheelchair. A score of 21 to 40 means that an individual can maintain some balance but needs assistance. The highest rating is 41 to 56, showing that an individual is completely independent.
Multiple Uses
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The Berg Balance Scale is being used to assess progress in stroke victims and individuals who have suffered trauma to the brain. Physicians are able to tell how well a patient is progressing during the course of treatment. Physicians also use this test to determine a patient's ability to be released from managed care. Other uses include being able to determine the rate of deterioration in individuals who suffer from Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis.
Benefits
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One of several benefits to the Berg Balance Scale is that it allows doctors and physical therapists to know exactly how to help a patient. A patient may have excellent balance while performing some parts of the test yet struggle with other parts. Treatment can be focused only on the weak areas.
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