The Usefulness of Clinical Balance Tests in Elderly : Correlation of Balance Evaluation using by Forceplate

노인에서 임상적 균형평가 지수들의 유용성 : 힘판을 이용한 균형평가와의 상관관계

Purpose : The purpose of this study was to investigate the usefulness of clinical balance tests through the correlation of balance evaluation using by forceplate in elderly. Methods : Thirty nine healthy elderly subjects (14 males, 25 females) participated in the study. The subjects were evaluated with clinical balance tests [(Berg balance scale (BBS), Functional reach test (FRT), Tinetti's performance oriented mobility assessment (POMA), and one leg standing (OLS)]. Static balance evaluation was assessed by using forceplate. Center of pressure (COP) parameters were obtained using it as total path distance, total sway area, X mean frequency and Y mean frequency for 20 seconds in the following conditions: (1) comfortable standing with eyes opened and closed, (2) uncomfortable standing with eyes opened and closed. After static balance evaluation tested, dynamic balance evaluation was assessed. COP parameters were error distance and area during sine curve trace. COP parameters were movement time, error distance, and maintained time in the circle during COP movement task. Results : Clinical balance tests showed statistically significant correlation between static and dynamic balance evaluations. Among the clinical balance tests, the BBS, POMA, and OLS showed significant correlation with to assess the balance ability of elderly in clinical setting both evaluations. Conclusion : Clinical balance tests can be recommended in clinical setting because of low costs and simplicity.