Single Leg Balance (SLB) Test

Single Leg Balance Test

Reference:

• Trojian TH, McKeag DB. Single leg balance test to identify risk of ankle sprains. Br J Sports Med 2006;40(7):610-613
  
• Chrintz H, Falster O, Roed J. Single-leg postural equilibrium test. Scand J Med Sci Sports 1991;1(4):244-246

  This test is performed on a single leg without shoes or socks on the foot and with the hands placed on the hips in order to prevent use of arms for balance.

  Measure the length of time the subject can maintain their balance for up to 60 seconds
  (Often clinically only 10 seconds is needed)

  Perform 3 times with the eyes open, then 3 times with the eyes closed.
  Usually an average of three trials is taken, or sometimes the best time.

  The test is stopped if the legs touch each other, if the weight-bearing foot moves on the floor, if the non-weight bearing foot touches the floor or if the hands are removed from the waist.

  Balance deficits are identified in patients with functional ankle instability (FAI) by a shorter time balancing than individuals without FAI (Chrintz et al 1991).

  The SLB test is considered positive and a good predictor of a future ankle sprain if the time held is less than 10 seconds for either eyes open or eyes closed. (Trojian 2006)

  Posted on: January 31, 2012

  Categories: Foot & Ankle