Balance is a very complex function and when assessed the influence of different factors needs to be established. Katherine Berg and her associates have developed function scale called »Balanced scale« (BBS) for balance evaluation. BBS includes 14 physical tasks, which are specific for balance and originate from everyday activities. BBS has a very high internal consistency, validity and has good psychometric characteristics. BBS also has high inter- and intra-rate reliability. Furthermore, it can be used for fall prediction. Fewer than 45 points at BBS indicate a balance dysfunction, which is one of the significant risk factors for falls. BBS can also be used for prediction of the length of the hospital stay and to predict the type and the amount of help needed after stroke, when discharged from the hospital. Characteristics of BBS are commonly used in research and rehabilitation among persons with balance dysfunction.
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