4 Simple Ways To Test Your “3 Balance Systems”

Hey Team! Last week we expanded on the example of “Mary” concerning our balance systems and discussed how we have three primary balance inputs. We added to our understanding of balance by examining the social/ psychological/ physical effects a fall has on an individual, despite the severity.

Today I am going to describe some simple ways you can test your balance at home. Recall last week. We discussed the three areas affecting balance: your ability to sense your stability, synthesize information from multiple inputs, and make adjustments to respond to the input received. Again, balance is a complex process. Our ability to maintain stability by interpreting information and creating a quick reaction is fantastic! So, understanding how to test for balance, and more importantly, how to improve balance, is necessary for all individuals. WORD OF CAUTION Before we advance into how to test for balance, we need to make sure we are in a safe environment. Challenging your sensory inputs is the goal of a balance test; therefore, you may become unstable. Place yourself in a narrow hallway, at a counter, or in the corner of two walls when testing. It is also best to have a person guard you to assist when your balance appears compromised. Ok, be safe with these tests, and let’s dive in!

4 SIMPLE BALANCE TESTS

We use a sensory interaction of balance test in the clinic, but this is a fancy description. The test is similar to a sobriety test administered by a police officer. Do your best to maintain position with these tests for up to 30 seconds while keeping arms to your sides. Perform the first two positions on a hard, level surface: Position 1: feet together, eyes open. Position 2: feet together, eyes closed. The next two positions perform while standing on a squishy surface. We use a thick piece of foam in the clinic, but you can use a fluffy pillow or couch cushion at home. Position 3: feet together, eyes open. Position 4: feet together, eyes closed. An acceptable test demonstrates minimal sway or change of position for 30 seconds.

4 reasons for you to discontinue to test: 1. Opening eyes in an eyes- closed condition. 2. Raise arms from sides. 3. Loss of balance & requires manual assistance. 4. Maintains balance for full 30 seconds. However, if you cannot maintain the position for 30 seconds, two additional trials are given.

HOW TO INTERPRET YOUR RESULT

Most people will complete the full 30 seconds in the first position with minimal sway or wobbling. Here is how to interpret your results if you fail at one of these test:

First test, which is the easiest, you likely have more than one balance system involved.

Second test, with the eyes closed, indicates you are visually dependent. In other words, you are not using sensory and inner ear input to maintain balance when your eyes are closed.

Third test, eyes open on the foam pad, but your first two tests were acceptable, you demonstrate some sensory deficit to the lower legs.

Fourth test only, you most likely have some level of difficulty to the inner ear. LEVELING UP

The majority of people we test in the clinic will have difficulty with at least one testing position, especially with eyes closed. You see, the majority of individuals are visually dependent on maintaining balance, and when challenged, a fall occurs. To prevent a fall when we have challenged vision, our sensory system and inner ear input need to be working well. Overall, balance is a complicated process. Next week we will discuss other factors negatively affecting balance and how they impact your ability to keep from falling. One last note, if you need assistance administering this test at home, feel free to reach out, and I will be glad to help.

The author, Rob Sumner, is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and owner of Sumner Specialized Physical Therapy, Specialized Strength and Specialized Massage. He’s happy to answer any questions about this article, wellness, or physical therapy overall by phone at (509) 684-5621 or by email at Rob@ SumnerPT.com