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Study aim: Evaluation of dynamic balance is inferred to be compulsory for fall prevention in the elderly. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a modified digital functional reach test device using an ultrasonic sensor for balance assessment and to test validity and reliability of the newly developed tool to qualify psychometric properties. Material and methods: This study was a cross-sectional study of a convenient sample including 50 participants both males and females. Mean age of the participants was 51.20 ± 19.30 years. Reliability of the newly developed device was analysed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and standard error of measurement (SEM). The criterion validity was also investigated using a yardstick mounted on the wall at a level of shoulder together with the MaxTraq® 2D motion analysis software. The modified digital functional reach test device using an ultrasonic sensor was correlated with the conventional FRT and the MaxTraq® 2D motion analysis. Results: The results presented that test-retest reliability of the modified digital functional reach test device was good reliability (ICC = 0.76) and low standard error of measurement (1.41) was found for test-retest reliability. The degree of agreement between the modified device, the conventional FRT, and the MaxTraq® 2D motion analysis was high (r = 0.71 and 0.77 respectively). Conclusions: The findings suggested that the modified digital functional reach test device using an ultrasonic sensor was a valid and reliable instrument for fall risk screening towards functional reach distance.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the test-retest reliability and minimal detectable change (MDC) of reach distance and movement angle analyses using Image J. [Participants and Methods] Thirty-eight healthy young males performed the functional reach test (FRT) twice, and their reach movements were recorded using a digital video camera. Image J was used to combine the digital photographs taken at the start position and maximum reach and to measure each movement. The measurements recorded were the movement distance of the third metacarpal bone (reach distance), anterior-superior iliac spine, and trochanter major, and the angles recorded were the acromion-malleolus lateralis, acromion-trochanter major, and trochanter major-malleolus lateralis. The reliability of all the measurements was analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), Bland-Altman plots, and MDCs. [Results] The ICCs (1, 1) were >0.80 for all the outcomes. The Bland-Altman analysis revealed no systematic bias in any outcome. The MDC of reach distance was 18.3 mm. [Conclusion] Measurement using Image J for reach distance and movement angles in the FRT showed acceptable high test-retest reliability. Measurement of the FRT and the MDC calculated in this study could be used as a reference for further research.

Objectives This study aims to compare the effect of static and dynamic core exercises in terms of dynamic balance, spinal stability, and hip mobility in female office workers. Patients and methods Between May 2018 and June 2018, a total of 34 women (mean age 36.4±6.5 years; range, 28 to 54 years) who worked for a bank and exercised in the fitness center of the work place were recruited. The women were divided into two groups including 17 women in each as static and dynamic core groups and administered sessions of 20 to 30 min twice a week for six weeks. Both groups were tested for dynamic balance (Y-balance test), spinal stability (functional reach test), and hip mobility (active flexion and extension) before and after six weeks of exercise. Results A statistically significant improvement was found in both groups between the pre- and post-test results in terms of spinal stability, hip mobility, and dynamic balance (p0.05). Conclusion Our study results indicate that both types of exercises are effective in improving dynamic balance, spinal stability, and hip mobility in female office workers. Therefore, the expected benefits from core exercises are to enhance dynamic balance, spinal stability, and hip mobility. Female workers can perform both types of exercises safely and effectively.

Background:The Functional Reach Test (FRT), which uses a ruler fixed to a wall, has been shown to be a reliable and valid method of evaluating fall risk in seniors and persons with various neurological conditions. However, because of various logistical reasons, the FRT may be underused by therapists

Objective To determine the usefulness of an un-stable board balance test in identifying a fall history among high-functioning community-dwelling elderly individuals. Design Case-control study. Subjects Sixty-one community-dwelling elderly aged ≥ 65 years and having the capacity to walk independently without an assistive device. Methods Subjects completed 3 balance performance tests: the Unstable Board Balance Test, Functional Reach Test, and Timed Up and Go. For analysis, subjects were classified as fallers or non-fallers based on the history of falls over the previous year, and performance outcomes were compared between the 2 groups. Subjects classified as fallers were then matched 1:1 with non-fallers (for sex, age, body weight and height), and the optimal cut-off score and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) for each test were calculated. Results Functional reach test and Timed Up and Go did not reliably discriminate between fallers and non-fallers. In contrast, the score on the unstable board balance test was significantly different between the 2 groups (p = 0.040). Among all 3 tests, AUC was largest for the unstable board balance test (0.78), with superior sensitivity (0.67) and specificity (0.87). Conclusion For high-functioning elderly subjects, the unstable board balance test was useful in discriminating between fallers and non-fallers.

Background: Limits of stability (LOS) is a major component of balance dysfunction in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The functional reach test (FRT) is a clinical LOS assessment; however, its psychometric properties have not been investigated in people with MS yet. Objectives: To investigate: (1) the intrarater, interrater, and test-retest reliability of the FRT in people with MS; (2) the minimum detectable change (MDC) in the FRT distances; (3) the concurrent and discriminant validity of the FRT; and (4) the cutoff distance that best discriminates people with MS from healthy people and fallers from non-fallers with MS. Methods: Forty-three people with MS and 36 healthy people participated in this study. The FRT was administered along with the instrumented LOS test, Berg Balance Scale, Four Square Step Test, Timed Up and Go Test, and Expanded Disability Status Scale. The FRT was repeated by the same rater after 2 min from the first test session to determine the intrarater reliability and was simultaneously conducted by two independent raters to determine the interrater reliability. The FRT was also repeated after 7-10 days to determine the test-retest reliability. The reliability was quantified using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), Bland-Altman plots, and the MDC. The validity was assessed by correlating the FRT distances with the scores of other measures and by comparing the FRT distances between the MS group and healthy people, and between the fallers and non-fallers in the MS group. Results: The FRT demonstrated good to excellent intrarater, interrater, and test-retest reliability with an ICC (3,1) of 0.80-0.88 (p < .001), an ICC (3,2) of 0.94-0.97 (p < .001), an ICC (2,3) of 0.84-0.86 (p < .001), respectively. Bland-Altman analyses showed no systematic bias between the assessments. The MDC was 8.28 centimeters. The FRT was correlated with the other outcome measures (correlation coefficients ranged from 0.31 to 0.79, p < .05 for all). Significant differences in the FRT distances were found between people with MS and healthy people; however, no significant difference was found between the fallers and non-fallers with MS (p p = .09, respectively). The cutoff distance of 35.5 centimeters best discriminates healthy people from people with MS while of 28.5 centimeters did not discriminate between the fallers and non-fallers with MS. Conclusions: The FRT is a reliable, valid, and easy-to-administer tool for assessing LOS in people with MS.

To provide normative reference values for the standing functional reach test for older adults.Observational study and meta-analysis of data from published studies.Clinical Research Center.Older adults: 199 hypertensive from INFINITY study and 7535 from consolidation of INFINITY and 20 other studies.Functional reach.The mean (standard deviation) for functional reach for the hypertensive older adults was 27.5 (7.2) cm. For the consolidated sample of older adults, a random effects model determined a weighted mean (standard error) functional reach of 27.2 (0.9) cm with a 95% confidence interval of 25.5 to 28.9cm.Pending the availability of data from a large population-based study, the summary data presented herein can serve as a reasonable estimate of normal functional reach for older adults.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study looked into physical therapists’ perception and use of balance measures for stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Three hundred eighty two physical therapists who understood the purpose of this study, agreed on their participation in this study, were treating or treated stroke patients. A Cross-sectional study based on self-administered questionnaire that had a total of 41 questions was performed in South Korea. 382 questionnaires were used for analysis. [Results] Regarding the questions about their perception and of personal measures, 287 persons (75.1%) replied that Single Leg Stance test was the most useful. According to the data analysis on their use of balance measures, Single Leg Stance Test was used by 254 persons (66.5%, the highest percentage), Functional Reach Test by 199 (52.1%). Also, stepwise multiple regression analysis was conducted. As a result, the most influential factor was physical therapists’ perception of personal measures, and their use was also influenced by their comprehensive perception of measurement and their perception of balance factors. [Conclusion] This study revealed physical therapists’ perception and use of balance measures for stroke patients and showed that their perception of balance measures for stroke patients affected their use of personal measures.

The purpose of the study is to investigate the effects of therapeutic Tai chi (TTC) on the functional fitness status and activities of daily living (ADL) of patients with Parkinson disease (PD). The participants were clinically stable PDs in Hoehn and Yahr stage 1–2. These patients were randomly assigned to either the TTC group (n=11) or the control (CON) group (n=9). The TTC exercised at the clinic 2 times a week and performed home-based activity 1 time per week for 12 weeks. All the PDs were evaluated for functional fitness test and ADL screen before and after the 12-week trial. There was a significant Time × group interaction effect on the arm curl (P

The study aim was to analyse the relationships between the results of the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and the Functional Reach Test (FRT), and the temporal and spatial gait parameters determined with the GAITRite system.The study included 60 healthy, physically active elderly people aged 70.4 ± 5.1 years. The participants’ functional fitness was evaluated with the TUG and FRT, and their temporal and spatial gait parameters – with the GAITRite system.The TUG results correlated inversely with the step length (Basic temporal and spatial parameters of gait at the preferred speed, i.e. velocity, step length, stance time, single support time, swing time, and double support time, explain up to 43% of the TUG outcome variance and 26% of the FRT results variance.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of aquatic dual-task training on balance and gait in stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty stroke patients were divided into the experimental (n=10) and control (n=10) groups. Both groups underwent neurodevelopmental treatment. The experimental group additionally underwent aquatic dual-task training for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, for 6 weeks. Balance was measured using the Berg balance scale, Five Times Sit-to Stand Test, and Functional Reach Test. Gait was measured using the 10-Meter Walk Test, Timed Up and Go Test, and Functional Gait Assessment. [Results] For intragroup comparison, the experimental group showed a significant change after the experiment in all balance and gait assessment tests. For intergroup comparison, the experimental group showed relatively more significant change after the experiment in all balance and gait assessment tests. [Conclusion] Our results showed that aquatic dual-task training has a positive effect on balance and gait in stroke patients.

[Purpose] The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of static and dynamic balance by using Medicine-ball and Swiss-ball exercises. [Subjects and Methods] Thirty-six normal adults who agreed to participate were included in the study. Subjects were randomly assigned to the Medicine-ball (n=18) and Swiss-ball groups (n=18). The participants performed the exercise for 6 weeks. Balance error scoring system and one leg standing test were performed to determine static balance, and functional reach test and timed up and go test were performed to determine dynamic balance. [Results] A significant improvement was observed from the Medicine-ball and Swiss-ball exercises, but no difference was found between the groups. In addition, a significant difference was found between balance error scoring system, one leg standing test and functional reach test after pre- and post-exercise of the Medicine-ball and Swiss-ball. [Conclusion] The findings of this study showed that the Medicine-ball and Swiss-balls were effective in improving static and dynamic balance.

Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) are frequently prescribed to improve ambulation in individuals with stroke. However, the role of AFOs in balance control is not completely understood. The aim of the study was to evaluate the contribution of the AFOs in functional stability of individuals with stroke.Twenty three individuals with unilateral hemiparesis due to stroke were assessed using the Functional Reach Test. The subjects performed reaches forward, left and right while standing with or without an AFO.When provided with AFO, individuals with stroke improved the maximal reaching distance in all the directions (p 0.05).The study found that individuals with unilateral stroke clearly demonstrated improvements in functional stability when they were provided with AFOs. This outcome could be used in the optimization of balance rehabilitation of individuals with stroke. Implications for Rehabilitation Functional stability is impaired in individuals with stroke. Functional Reach Test (FRT) was used to assess the role of ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) in balance control. Individuals with stroke improved their functional stability while they were provided with AFOs. Functional Reach Test could assist clinicians in the evaluation of postural stability associated with the use of AFOs.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the immediate effects of robot-assisted therapy on functional activity level after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. [Subjects and Methods] Participants included 10 patients (8 males and 2 females) following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The subjects participated in robot-assisted therapy and treadmill exercise on different days. The Timed Up-and-Go test, Functional Reach Test, surface electromyography of the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis, and maximal extensor strength of isokinetic movement of the knee joint were evaluated in both groups before and after the experiment. [Results] The results for the Timed Up-and-Go Test and the 10-Meter Walk Test improved in the robot-assisted rehabilitation group. Surface electromyography of the vastus medialis muscle showed significant increases in maximum and average discharge after the intervention. [Conclusion] The results suggest that walking ability and muscle strength can be improved by robotic training.

Objective. The aim of this randomized controlled study was to investigate the effects of insoles with a toe-grip bar on toe function and standing balance in healthy young women. Methods. Thirty female subjects were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. The intervention group wore shoes with insoles with a toe-grip bar. The control group wore shoes with general insoles. Both groups wore the shoes for 4 weeks, 5 times per week, 9 hours per day. Toe-grip strength, toe flexibility, static balance (total trajectory length and envelope area of the center of pressure), and dynamic balance (functional reach test) were measured before and after the intervention. Results. Significant interactions were observed for toe-grip strength and toe flexibility (F=12.53, p<0.01; F=5.84, p<0.05, resp.), with significant improvement in the intervention group compared with that in the control group. Post hoc comparisons revealed that both groups showed significant improvement in toe-grip strength (p<0.01 and p<0.05, resp.), with higher benefits observed for the intervention group (p<0.01). Conversely, no significant interaction was observed in the total trajectory length, envelope area, and functional reach test. Conclusions. This study suggests that insoles with a toe-grip bar contribute to improvements in toe-grip strength and toe flexibility in healthy young women.

Aims: To describe the difference in functional reach test (FRT) distance and velocity during “self-selected” and “as-fast-as-possible” reach velocities, and to describe the age-related differences associated distance and velocity in the two tests. Methods: A cross-sectional study included 73 healthy volunteers, 20–95 years of age. Reach ability while standing was measured during three trials performed at a “comfortable speed”, and three performed as fast as possible. A web camera was used to record the tests at a frequency of 15 Hz. Major findings: The forward reach was by mean longer in 1.2 cm (± 4.9 cm) (F1;70 = 4.9, p = 0.03) in the self-selected speed condition. In addition, values were significantly higher among the younger group; during the self-selected speed by 5.8 ± 2.1 cm and by 7.2 ± 2.1 cm during the as-fast-as-possible condition (F1;70 = 11.6, p < 0.001), the backward movement in the self-selected speed was smaller by 1.2 cm (± 4.9 cm) (F1;70 = 6.3, p = 0.01),The mean reach backward i...

High fall rates causing injury and enormous financial costs are reported for children. However, only few studies investigated the effects of balance training in children and these studies did not find enhanced balance performance in postural (transfer) tests. Consequently, it was previously speculated that classical balance training might not be stimulating enough for children to adequately perform these exercises. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the influence of ice skating as an alternative form of balance training. Volunteers of an intervention (n = 17; INT: 13.1 ± 0.4 years) and a control group (n = 13; CON: 13.2 ± 0.3 years) were tested before and after training in static and dynamic postural transfer tests. INT participated in eight sessions of ice skating during education lessons, whereas CON participated in normal physical education. Enhanced balance performance was observed in INT but not in CON when tested on an unstable free-swinging platform (P

[Purpose] The multi-directional reach test (MDRT) is a simple, inexpensive, reliable and valid screening tool for assessing the limits of stability in the anterorposterior and mediolateral directions. The aim of this study was to quantify the limits of stability of people aged between 20 and 79 years using the MDRT. [Subjects] One hundred and eighty subjects were divided into the following 6 age groups: 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69 and 70–79 years (n=30 per group). [Methods] The MDRT was used to measure the limits of stability in four directions: forward, backward, leftward and rightward. Subjects performed maximal outstretched arm reach in each direction with their feet flat on the floor. [Results] All age groups performed the greatest values of the limit of stability in the forward direction. The 60–79 year group demonstrated significantly lower limits of stability in the forward, leftward and rightward directions compared to the 20–39 year group. [Conclusion] The limits of stability declined with age mainly in the forward, leftward and rightward directions. The MDRT appears to be a useful assessment tool for postural control and balance of those aged 60 years and over.

[Purpose] This study investigated the effects of COP displacement training using visual feedback had on the gait of patients with hemiplegia due to stroke. [Subjects and Methods] This study was conducted with 20 patients with hemiplegia due to stroke. The training consisted of five training sets repeated 10 times and the activity was conducted for 15 minutes each session, three times per week for six weeks immediately after completion of central nervous system developmental treatment. [Results] A comparison of the results of before and after the experiment found that the COP displacement training group showed significant improvements in step length, stride length, gait velocity, and the functional reach test, while the control group showed significant improvement only in the functional reach test. In the intergroup comparison, the COP displacement training group showed significant improvements in paretic side step length, paretic side stride length, gait velocity, and the functional reach test compared to the control group. [Conclusion] In conclusion, according to the results of this study, visual feedback training for COP displacement is more effective at enhancing the gait and balance of hemiplegic patients due to stroke than only performing feedback training for even weight distribution.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the visual restriction and unstable base dual-task training (VUDT), the visual restriction dual-task training (VDT), and the unstable base dual-task training (UDT) on the balance and attention of chronic stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 38 chronic stroke patients, who were divided into two groups of 13 patients each and one group of 12 patients. They were given dual-task training for 30 minutes per session, three times a week, for eight weeks. Their balance was measured using the center of pressure (COP) migration distances, functional reach test (FRT), and Berg balance scale (BBS), and attention was measured with the Trail Making Tests and the Stroop test. [Results] In comparisons within each group, all the three groups showed significant differences before and after the training (p

[Purpose] This study aimed to examine the changes in the muscle activities of each section of the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscles in the functional reach test. [Subjects and Methods] This study selected those who can walk independently, can reach out their arm up to over 25 cm, can show over 90° shoulder joint bending, have not undergone an operation in the lower limb joint, and are not taking any medication affecting their ability to keep their balance from among 24 elderly males and 24 elderly females. The muscular activities of the tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius muscles were measured using the functional reach test and electromyogram. The functional reach test was conducted at a total of four sections: 0, 15, 20, and 25 cm. [Results] Gender and age affected the muscular activity by section in the functional reach test. It was also found that the gastrocnemius muscle was used more than the tibialis anterior muscle to keep the balance, and the aged subjects with good balance ability showed no great change in muscular activity on both stable and unstable ground. [Conclusion] It was found that the subjects used the tibialis anterior muscle more, and the lower limbs of the frequently used part, to keep their balance. As the aged subjects had good balance ability, they showed no great change in muscular activity on both stable and unstable ground.

Aims: The functional reach test (FRT) and lateral reach test (LRT) provide important measures of postural stability. The aims of this study were to (1) establish the normative values for FRT and LRT, and (2) examine the effects of age, gender, and various anthropometric measurements on FRT and LRT. Methods: Two hundred eighty children, aged 6–12 years, completed the study. One hundred fifty-two subjects were females. The mean age was 9.0 ± 2.0 years. Each child performed two trials of FRT and LRT. Results: No significant differences were detected in any age group between males and females. The normal values of FRT ranged between 23.0 and 36.5 cm, and that of LRT between 18.0 and 28.0 cm. Height, length of upper and lower extremity, and arm span had a higher correlation with FRT. Age and weight showed a good correlation with FRT. Age, height, weight, length of upper and lower extremity, and arm span showed good correlation with LRT. Conclusions: These normative data will be useful for clinicians in the assessment of balance of individual children and in the diagnosis of potential balance deficits at an early age in the Turkish population. © 2017 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

[Purpose] This study aims to verify the effects of visual control whole body vibration exercise on balance and gait function of stroke patients. [Subjects and Methods] A total of 22 stroke patients were randomly assigned to two groups; 11 to the experimental group and 11 to the control group. Both groups received 30 minutes of Neuro-developmental treatment 5 times per week for 4 weeks. The experimental group additionally performed 10 minutes of visual control whole body vibration exercise 5 times per week during the 4 weeks. Balance was measured using the Functional Reach Test. Gait was measured using the Timed Up and Go Test. [Results] An in-group comparison in the experimental group showed significant differences in the Functional Reach Test and Timed Up and Go Test. In comparing the groups, the Functional Reach Test and Timed Up and Go Test of the experimental group were more significantly different compared to the control group. [Conclusion] These results suggest that visual control whole body vibration exercise has a positive effect on the balance and gait function of stroke patients.

OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate whether adding a pointing task would influence functional reach test performance in younger and older adults. DESIGN While standing on a force plate, 20 older (73 ± 8 yrs) and 20 younger (23 ± 1 yrs) adults were randomly administered a modification of the functional reach test and the functional point test. Functional pointing involved reaching and pointing at the farthest possible target in a series of 1.27-cm colored craft pom-poms attached at 2.54-cm intervals on a yardstick. RESULTS Both older adults (P = 0.001) and younger adults (P = 0.043) reached farther using the functional point test. Older adults also increased their anterior center of pressure displacement with this test (P = 0.037). CONCLUSIONS The addition of a pointing task can make the original clinical test more functional and increase reaching distance in both older and younger adults. Further research is needed to determine whether functional pointing challenges subjects' stability limits more than the traditional test does and offers greater sensitivity in the evaluation of functional balance and fall risk.

[Purpose] This study was performed to investigate the effects of trunk stability exercise using the proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) technique on stroke patients’ muscle activation and their results in the functional reach test (FRT). [Subjects] Adult hemiplegia patients (n=40) were randomly allocated to two groups: an experimental group and a control group. [Methods] The experimental group performed a trunk stability exercise using the PNF, while the control group performed only a general exercise program for 6 weeks (5 times a week). Pre- and post-experiment measurements were made of the FRT. For measuring muscle activation, the quadriceps, hamstring, tibialis anterior, and soleus muscles were recorded by electromyography (EMG) in the FRT. [Results] The results of this study show that after performing the therapeutic exercise program, the experimental group showed significant improvements in FRT, activities of quadriceps, hamstring, and soleus muscles on the affected side, and activities of the quadriceps, and soleus muscles on the non-affected side, the control group showed significant improvements only in activities of the quadriceps, and soleus muscles on the non-affected side. [Conclusion] These results indicate that trunk stabilizing exercises using PNF performed by stroke patients were effective at improving FRT and the muscle activities of the soleus and quadriceps.

[Purpose] Evaluation of motion strategy during FRT is not generally included in physical assessment aiming at rehabilitation and promotion of good health. We believe that measuring only reach distance during FRT is insufficient for evaluating gait; therefore, examining motion strategy during FRT is also necessary. [Subjects] The subjects were 83 healthy university students (46 men and 37 women; range, 19—21 years), and 128 elderly persons (42 men and 86 women; range, 70—87 years). [Methods] We investigated and compared the motion strategy during FRT in both the young and elderly subjects and examined the influence of aging on motion strategy. [Results] Elderly persons used patterns of movement with ankle plantar flexion more often than the young persons. [Conclusion] The ankle plantar flexion pattern was dominant among the elderly subjects because the center of gravity in FRT was located within the base of support. We would like to use FRT as an index for fall prevention. To do that, we would need to devise a method to measure the ability to control the body in the situation in which center of gravity starts deviating from the base of support.

〔目的〕本研究はCross testと静的バランスおよび他の動的バランス検査との関係を明らかにするとともに，Cross testから得られる十字の軌跡図について検討することを目的とした。〔対象〕専門学校学生73名を対象とした。〔方法〕重心動揺計を使用し，静的立位バランス（開眼，閉眼）片脚立位バランス，Cross test，FRTの計測を行い，得られた各計測のパラメータ間の関係について検討した。〔結果〕開眼立位，閉眼立位，片脚立位の各パラメータ間には相関がみられた。Cross testのパラメータとその他の計測のパラメータ間には相関はみられなかった。Cross testにおける矩形面積を外周面積で除した値と開眼立位，閉眼立位との間に相関がみられた。〔結語〕Cross testのパラメータには静的バランスを含め多くの要素が関与しているが，十字の軌跡図の鮮明さは静的バランス自体を反映している可能性が示唆された。

〔目的〕本研究の目的は，光学的流動の有無がファンクショナルリーチテスト（以下，FRT）のリーチ距離に及ぼす影響と，姿勢の相違ならびに光学的流動の有無がその自己身体能力の予測に及ぼす影響について明らかにすることである。[対象] 対象者は，健常な学生46名であった。〔方法〕坐位姿勢において光学的流動のない坐位保持，光学的流動のある電動車椅子移動，立位姿勢において光学的流動のない立位保持，光学的流動のある歩行移動の4条件の施行後，リーチ距離の予測を行わせ，FRTを行い，実測値と，実測値と予測値との誤差を条件間で比較した。〔結果〕実測値と誤差（絶対値）はそれぞれ条件間で差が認められなかった。誤差（プラスマイナス値）は，いずれの姿勢でも光学的流動を伴ったほうが有意に高値であった。立位姿勢では立位保持に比べて歩行移動で過大予測する者の出現率が有意に高かった。〔結語〕光学的流動によって自己身体能力の過大予測が生じ，特に，FRT実施の際の姿勢と同一の立位で移動すると顕著であることが示唆された。理学療法において，光学的流動を伴う課題を体験していくとき，光学的流動の影響で過大予測するマイナス面とプラス面を考慮する必要があると考える。

To assess the within-session reliability of the Modified Functional Reach Test (MFRT) and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test in children with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and children with typical development (TD).A convenience sample of 24 children with TBI and 24 children with TD matched for age and sex were tested. Following 1 practice trial, 3 trials of the MFRT and TUG were completed and recorded for each child.Within-session reliability for the MFRT was excellent [children with TBI (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC (1,1) = 0.92-0.97), children with TD (ICC (1,1) = 0.94-0.95)]. Within-session reliability for the TUG test was good [children with TBI (ICC (1,1) = 0.86), children with TD (ICC (1,1) = 0.85)]. The average of the first and second trials showed the least measurement error for the TUG test.Within-session reliability values are excellent for the MFRT and good for the TUG test in children with TBI.

[Purpose] We have proposed in a previous paper a novel indicator of smoothness using the power spectrum entropy of acceleration time-series during movement. In this paper, we describe this indicator's ability to distinguish between fallers' and non-fallers' gait in community dwelling elderly. This novel indicator is simple to use and can directly evaluate gait. [Subjects] Two hundred and fifty-one subjects (age = 71.0 7.7) were categorized fallers (39) and non-fallers (191) based on their histories (21 were unknown). [Methods] Grip strength, walking speed and the functional reach test, were used as convenient indicators, and the entropy of spectrum of acceleration during gait were measured and compared between fallers and non-fallers. [Results] Significant differences were found in the entropy of the fastest gait as well as in the other indices (p

Summary Professionals in theater, athletics, and rehabilitation settings have integrated Pilates-based exercise into their practice. The Pilates method of exercise claims to have several benefits including improving posture and improving balance; however, there are few studies to support these statements. We studied the effects of Pilates-based exercise on dynamic balance in healthy adults. A certified Pilates instructor conducted all exercise sessions. After completing 10 Pilates-based exercise sessions a significant change ( P = . 01 ) in dynamic balance was found in the functional reach test (FRT) mean scores in the exercise group ( n = 17 ). The control group ( n = 17 ) demonstrated no significant change ( P = . 54 ). The results suggest that Pilates-based exercise improved dynamic balance as measured by the FRT in healthy adults.

Test-retest reliability of the Functional Reach Test was examined in children with typical development by comparing standard and alternate methods.Eighty subjects ages seven to 16 years were tested and 69 retested for four methods of Functional Reach Test (ie, one-arm finger-to-finger, two-arm finger-to-finger, one-arm toe-to-finger, and two-arm toe-to-finger). Intraclass correlation coefficients and limits of agreement were calculated.Intraclass correlation coefficients were high in toe-to-finger measurement methods (0.97-0.98) for the entire group and specific age groups (00.83-0.93). Toe-to-finger methods were more reliable than finger-to-finger methods. The two-arm toe-to-finger method had the best limits of agreement with approximately +/-5 cm indicated by the 95% confidence interval.Test-retest reliability using a toe-to-finger method of measuring is stronger than previously reported when using traditional methods. Limits of agreement analyses imply a change of 5 cm or more is likely to represent a true clinical difference when using the two-arm toe-to-finger method.

This study was carried out to investigate gender influence on balance performance of apparently healthy elderly using the Sharpened Romberg Test (SRT) for static balance and the Functional Reach Test (FRT) for dynamic balance assessments. One hundred and three (103) apparently healthy male and 100 apparently healthy female elderly subjects of age ranging from 60 to 74 years participated in this study. They had no history of neurologicaldeficits, postural hypotension, orthopaedics conditions or injury to the back and / or upper and lower extremities within the past five years.Descriptive statistics of range, means and standard deviation were used to analyze the physical characteristics and each of the two tests. The independent t-test was used to compare the balance performances in elderly males and females. The results showed that males performed significantly higher than females in FRT: ( 31.46 ± 12.34) and (24.00 ± 10.73) respectively. Males performed significantly higher than females in SRT in eyes opened (58.51 ± 4.43)and (56.58 ± 6.03) and eyes closed: (46.98 ± 14.89) and (42.59 ± 14.70) performances respectively.It was concluded that males performed significantly better than females in both static and dynamic balance performances.

Background and Purpose. To describe the effects of an eight-week Tai Chi class on two patients: one with Parkinson's disease, the other with multiple system atrophy. Method and Results. Both patients demonstrated improved scores on the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale and the Functional Reach Test. One subject also demonstrated improved scores for the Timed Up and Go test. Both subjects reported subjective improvements in balance and balance awareness. Conclusions. Tai Chi may be a viable option for improving balance in patients with mild Parkinsonism. Copyright © 2005 Whurr Publishers Ltd.

This clinical investigation examined 1) the relationship between lower extremity joint torque and risk for falls and 2) the effectiveness of physical therapy intervention in decreasing the risk for falls and increasing lower extremity joint torque in a group of community dwelling older adults. Twenty-two healthy adults (6 males, 16 females) ages 65 and older participated. All participants were given an extensive examination to identify risk for falls and performance on selected measures of balance, strength, and mobility, including muscle performance measured as joint torque using hand-held dynamometry and risk for falls by scores on the Berg Balance Scale (Berg, Wood-Dauphinee, Williams, and Gayton 1989), Functional Reach Test (Duncan, Weiner, Chandler, and Studentski, 1990), and the Timed “Up & Go” Test (Podsiadlo and Richardson, 1991). Participants took part in an exercise program designed to address impairments identified during the initial examination and facilitate improvement in lower extremity str...

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between knee pain and various indicators of the combined performance of the lower extremity (including gait parameters, functional performance such as timed up and go, and functional reach test) and to determine whether the classification of vertical ground reaction forces correlates with gait parameters and functional performance. Subjects and Methods: Simultaneous analysis of gait, timedistance parameters and vertical ground reaction force. Timed up and go, and functional reach test were examined in 130 elderly women. The vertical component of the ground reaction force was grouped into 2 categories: M-shaped and non-M-shaped. Results: No significant association was found between knee pain and timed up and go, functional reach test, or gait parameters in elderly female participants. There were significant differences between subjects with M- and nonM-shaped vertical ground reaction forces with regard to timed up and go, functional reach test and Japan Orthopaedic Association score. There were also significant differences between the 2 groups (M shaped and non-Mshaped) in gait parameters. Conclusion: Evaluation of the vertical ground reaction force to determine its shape may be a useful and simple tool in the analysis of gait and functional performance.

Objective: To compare the Timed "Up and Go" and Functional Reach tests to the Berg Balance Scale for concurrent validity in a broad adult population. Design: A prospective study of individuals with balance deficits. Setting: Neurological rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and acute care facilities. Subjects: Twenty subjects: 12 females and eight males, aged 38 to 86 years (μ=68, SD=14.5). Intervention: The order in which the three tests were performed on each subject was randomized and the scores from the three tests were analyzed using correlation coefficients. Main Outcome Measures: Balance and correlations were based on scores from each of the three balance tests performed. Results: There was a significant correlation between the Berg Balance Scale and Timed "Up and Go" test (r=0.47, p=0.04) but no significant correlation between the Berg Balance Scale and the Functional Reach test (r=0.42, p=0.06). Pairing the Timed "Up and Go" and Functional Reach tests however, revealed a significant correlation (R=0.56, p=0.04). Conclusion: This study suggests that the Timed "Up and Go" test alone or a combination of the Timed "Up and Go" and Functional Reach tests can be used as a simple measure of balance comparable to the Berg Balance Scale.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate a novel design dynamic force platform the Quantitative Posturography System (QPS). The evaluation consisted of identifying the effects due to ageing and disease of the postural control system and also to examine the relationship between functional performance and postural sway. An AOVA design and Pearson-Product correlation design were used. Seventy healthy subjects, seven subjects with Parkinson’s disease and eight subjects with a history of falls took part in the study. It was found that the QPS was able to identify changes due to both the ageing process and disease on the postural control system. Also a moderate correlation coefficient was found between the sway parameters of the QPS and the two functional balance assessment tests, the Single Leg Stance Test (SLST) and the Functional Reach Test (FR test). In conclusion, the QPS was able to detect the change in the postural control system due to both the ageing process and disease. It was also found that there is a moderately strong relationship between functional performance and postural sway.

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of task-oriented training with whole body vibration (WBV) on the sitting balance of stroke patients. [Subjects] The subjects were 30 stroke patients who were randomly divided into experimental (n1=15) and control (n2=15) groups. [Methods] Subjects in both groups received general training five times per week. Subjects in the experimental group practiced an additional task-oriented training program with WBV, which was performed for 15 minutes, five times per week, for four weeks. The center of pressure (COP) path length and average velocity were used to assess subjects static sitting balance, and the Modified Functional Reach Test (MFRT) was used to assess their dynamic sitting balance. The paired t-test was performed to test the significance of differences between before and after the intervention. The independent t-test was conducted to test the significance of differences between the groups. [Results] Following the intervention, the experimental group showed a significant change in MFRT. [Conclusion] The results of this study suggest that task-oriented training with WBV is feasible and efficacious for stroke patients.