Res 320 Experementation critique
Experimentation Critique
University of Phoenix
RES – 320 Foundations of Research
September 16th, 2013
The Balance Evaluation Systems Test to Differentiate Balance Deficits Experimentation Critique.
The article viewed presents the framework, preliminary concurrent validity and interrater credibility for the specific tool. The Balance Evaluation Systems Test, also known as BESTest. The overall goal of this particular study was the development of a clinical balance tool for assessment which focus’ on six separate systems of balance control, so that isolated rehabilitation mapping can be put into place for different balance deficiencies. Sampling subjects and healthy subjects with different balance deficits make up the independent variable.
The balance assessment tools use currently do not assist therapist in identifying underlying postural control systems that are responsible for low functional balance. They do however help identify if there is a risk of falling or what and where the balance deficits are such as visual function, reaction time delays or impaired proprioception. Although the risk is identified, what is not identified is what is causing them. Another problem with current methods is that treatment seems to be standard balance training for a standard balance problem. By identifying the cause of the balance deficits of each individual patient the therapist will then be able to direct specific individualized types of intervention for different types of problems.
BESTest is made up of thirty six items that are grouped into six systems:
• Biomechanical constraints for standing balance that include ankle and hip strength, postural alignment, the quality of base for the foot support, and the ability to get up off the floor to a standing position.
• Stability limits/verticality includes how far the body can travel over its support base before changing the support of
University of Phoenix
RES – 320 Foundations of Research
September 16th, 2013
The Balance Evaluation Systems Test to Differentiate Balance Deficits Experimentation Critique.
The article viewed presents the framework, preliminary concurrent validity and interrater credibility for the specific tool. The Balance Evaluation Systems Test, also known as BESTest. The overall goal of this particular study was the development of a clinical balance tool for assessment which focus’ on six separate systems of balance control, so that isolated rehabilitation mapping can be put into place for different balance deficiencies. Sampling subjects and healthy subjects with different balance deficits make up the independent variable.
The balance assessment tools use currently do not assist therapist in identifying underlying postural control systems that are responsible for low functional balance. They do however help identify if there is a risk of falling or what and where the balance deficits are such as visual function, reaction time delays or impaired proprioception. Although the risk is identified, what is not identified is what is causing them. Another problem with current methods is that treatment seems to be standard balance training for a standard balance problem. By identifying the cause of the balance deficits of each individual patient the therapist will then be able to direct specific individualized types of intervention for different types of problems.
BESTest is made up of thirty six items that are grouped into six systems:
• Biomechanical constraints for standing balance that include ankle and hip strength, postural alignment, the quality of base for the foot support, and the ability to get up off the floor to a standing position.
• Stability limits/verticality includes how far the body can travel over its support base before changing the support of