Normative data for the modified balance error scoring system in adults

Abstract

Primary objective: Head trauma, with or without injury to the brain, can impair balance and postural stability. The Modified Balance Error Scoring System (M-BESS) is a rapid, standardized, objective bedside test that can be helpful for monitoring recovery of balance and postural stability following head trauma. The purpose of this study is to develop preliminary normative data for this test for adults.Methods and procedures: Adults between the ages of 20–69 (n = 1234) were administered the M-BESS as part of a comprehensive preventive health screen. They did not have significant medical, neurological or lower extremity problems that might have an adverse effect on balance.Main outcomes and results: M-BESS performance significantly declined with age. Men and women performed similarly on the M-BESS. There was a small significant difference in M-BESS performance, with obese men performing more poorly than non-obese men and a larger significant difference between obese and non-obese women.Conclusions: The M-BESS normative data are presented for the total sample and by age, sex and age-by-sex. These normative data provide a frame of reference for interpreting M-BESS performance in adults who sustain traumatic brain injuries and adults with diverse neurological problems.