Current state of balance assessment during transferring, sitting, standing and walking activities for the spinal cord injured population: A systematic review

This study reviews methods of balance assessment for people with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Balance is key to preventing falls, which are common and can lead to injuries and reduced community participation. Effective balance relies on integrating sensory information and interacting with the environment. Balance issues are assessed to reduce falls and track progress. The review looks at which balance tests are comprehensive, reliable, and practical for individuals with SCI to guide clinicians and researchers.

• 1
  Thirty-one balance measures were identified, including biomechanical assessments and clinical balance scales.
• 2
  The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Functional Reach Test (FRT) are valid and reliable. The mini-BESTest was the most comprehensive.
• 3
  No single measure had high clinical utility, strong psychometric properties, and comprehensiveness.