Test: Single Leg Stance

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Background/Purpose

Procedure

Patient begins with the feet together and arms at the side. First, have focus on a point about 5 feet in front of them. Once they have this point, have the patient lift the left leg to 90 hip flexion and 90 degrees knee flexion. Begin timing the patient and observing for the following criteria: 1. Excessive postural sway or a loss of height 2. Stable foot and ankle position. Some minor movement is acceptable but a shifting of the foot is cause for failure. 3. Arms should not move excessively. 4. Height of the non-supporting leg should remain unchanged. The goal is to maintain balance for 10 seconds on each leg. Repeat process for the right leg as well. If the patient can perform each side for 10 seconds with the eyes open, the test is repeated with the eyes closed. A dynamic component can also be added by performing a leg swing with the non supporting leg. This dynamic maneuver is similar to gait and will help indicate if there is asymmetry in muscle tension or strength.
Performed: Unilaterally

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Criteria

• Maintain height and neutral spine
• Stability of foot and ankle
• Minimal arm motion
• No postural sway

Measurement

10.00 seconds

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail