Article

The Four Square Step Test (FSST) is a performance-based balance tool involving
stepping over four single-point canes placed on the floor in a cross
configuration. The purpose of this study was to evaluate properties of the FSST
in older adults who lived independently. Forty-five community dwelling older
adults provided fall history and completed the FSST, Berg Balance Scale (BBS),
Timed Up and Go (TUG), and Tinetti in random order. Future falls were recorded
for 12 months following testing. The FSST accurately distinguished between
non-fallers and multiple fallers, and the 15-second threshold score accurately
distinguished multiple fallers from non-multiple fallers based on fall history.
The FSST predicted future falls, and performance on the FSST was significantly
correlated with performance on the BBS, TUG, and Tinetti. However, the test is
not appropriate for older adults who use walkers. Overall, the FSST is a valid
yet underutilized measure of balance performance and fall prediction tool that
physical therapists should consider using in ambulatory community dwelling older adults.

Langue : ANGLAIS