A Normative Dataset of the Balance Error Scoring System in Children Aged Between 5 and 14.

Abstract

Pediatric head injuries occur commonly and are being reported in increasing numbers. Balance testing is a key component in the evaluation of suspected concussion, and the balance error scoring system (BESS) is likely the most well-known and widely used measure. To date, normative BESS scores for adults have been reported but not for children. Normative data for BESS scores and modified BESS scores were created in a cohort of healthy children. Potential variables were analyzed as predictors of BESS performance. Local elementary and junior high schools. A total of 373 healthy children between the ages of 5 and 14. The BESS was performed on all children. Gender, body mass index percentile, previous concussions, athletic participation, age, and the parental opinion of child's balance ability were examined as factors associated with the BESS score. BESS scores. Normative data are reported, stratified by age groups of 5 to 7 years, 8 to 10 years, and 11 to 14 years of age, for both BESS and modified BESS. Median BESS scores are 23 for children aged 5 to 7, 18 for children aged 8 to 10, and 16 for children aged 11 to 14. Median modified BESS scores are 8 for children age 5 to 7, 5 for children age 8 to 10, and 4 for children age 11 to 14. Increasing age and positive parental opinion regarding their child's balance ability were independently correlated with decreasing BESS scores (P < 0.01). The normative data on BESS scores for healthy children reported here provide age-stratified reference values for suspected balance alterations.