Relationship between functional balance and walking ability in individuals with chronic stroke.
Masumeh Hessam, Reza Salehi, Mohammad Jafar Shaterzadeh Yazdi and 3 others
PMID 30154588WHAT IT FOUND
In 31 people with chronic stroke, the Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) strongly correlated with Berg Balance Scale scores.
This quick walking assessment may help estimate balance ability, potentially saving time compared to the longer Berg Balance Scale.
Key findings
01A significant positive correlation was found between Berg Balance Scale scores and Functional Ambulation Category scores.
02The Functional Ambulation Category is a quick visual assessment tool that does not require additional equipment.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTs
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What it does not show
The study only included people with chronic ischemic stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory, so results may not apply to other stroke types or acute stages. Other factors affecting walking, such as strength, endurance, and cognitive function, were not assessed. The sample size was small (31 participants). The study did not determine a specific cut-off value for the FAC to identify fall risk.
Declared interests
The study was part of a PhD thesis funded by Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences. The authors reported no conflicts of interest.
The easy way to misread this
Do not assume the FAC can replace the Berg Balance Scale for detailed balance analysis or fall risk prediction. The study shows a correlation, not equivalence in diagnostic precision, and no cut-off scores for the FAC were established.