Berg Balance Scale (BBS)
A clinical test to assess a patient's balance and fall risk.
Assessment Tasks
For each task, please select the description that best fits the patient's ability.
1. Sit to Stand
Patient stands up from a seated position without using hands for support.
2. Stand Unsupported
Patient stands unsupported for 2 minutes.
3. Sitting Unsupported
Patient sits unsupported with arms folded for 2 minutes.
4. Stand to Sit
Patient sits down in a controlled manner without using hands.
5. Transfers
Patient transfers between two chairs of different heights independently.
6. Stand with Eyes Closed
Patient stands unsupported with eyes closed for 10 seconds.
7. Stand with Feet Together
Patient stands unsupported with feet together for 1 minute.
8. Reach Forward
Patient reaches forward while standing, aiming to extend arms as far as possible without stepping.
9. Pick Up Object
Patient picks up a small object (e.g., pen) from the floor while standing.
10. Turn to Look Over Shoulders
Patient turns to look over each shoulder while standing without losing balance.
11. Turn 360 Degrees
Patient turns in a complete circle in both directions, without losing balance.
12. Step Up on Stool
Patient steps up onto a step or stool with each foot, one at a time.
13. Stand Unsupported with One Foot in Front
Patient places one foot directly in front of the other and stands for 30 seconds.
14. Stand on One Leg
Patient stands on one leg for 10 seconds without support.
Total Score
This screening result is not a diagnosis. Discuss concerns or unexpected results with a qualified healthcare professional.
About the Berg Balance Scale
The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) is a widely used clinical test to assess a person's static and dynamic balance abilities. It consists of 14 functional tasks that are common in everyday life.
The BBS is primarily used for older adults to assess balance and fall risk. It is also used for patients with various neurological conditions, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injury.
A healthcare professional observes the patient performing the 14 tasks. Each task is scored on a five-point ordinal scale from 0 to 4, with 0 indicating the lowest level of function and 4 the highest. The total score is out of 56.
The scale helps to quantify a patient's balance, track changes over time, and predict the risk of falling. This information is crucial for developing effective treatment plans, such as physical therapy, to improve safety and independence.
© 2026 Berg Balance Scale Tool. For informational purposes only.
Citation: Berg, K. O., Wood-Dauphinee, S. L., Williams, J. I., & Maki, B. (1992). Measuring balance in the elderly: validation of an instrument. Canadian journal of public health, 83, S7-S11.