Mini-BESTest: Balance Evaluation Systems Test

Clinical intent

This clinical balance assessment tool is a shortened version of the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) a balance assessment tool with focuses on “dynamic balance” [1]. It aims to target and identify 6 different balance control systems so that specific rehabilitation approaches can be designed for different balance deficits. The BESTest was shortened based on factor analysis to include dynamic balance only and to improve clinical utilization [2].

Calculation

Scores are calculated by summing all the answers per section.

References

[1] Horak FB, Wrisley DM, Frank J. The Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) to differentiate balance deficits. Phys Ther. 2009 May;89(5):484-98. doi: 10.2522/ptj.20080071. Epub 2009 Mar 27. PMID: 19329772; PMCID: PMC2676433.
[2] Franchignoni F, Horak F, Godi M, Nardone A, Giordano A. Using psychometric techniques to improve the Balance Evaluation Systems Test: the mini-BESTest. J Rehabil Med. 2010 Apr;42(4):323-31. doi: 10.2340/16501977-0537. PMID: 20461334; PMCID: PMC3228839.