2025 Volume 5 Issue 1 Pages 19-31
Introduction: Physical therapy was implemented using the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) Keyform for a patient with balance impairment due to spinocerebellar ataxia. This case report describes the clinical application of the Keyform, as well as the progression and outcomes of the intervention.
Case Description: The patient was a man in his early 70s diagnosed with spinocerebellar ataxia type 31, with a disease duration of 23 years. His primary symptom was unsteadiness during gait, and balance impairment was identified as a major clinical finding.
Physical Therapy Treatment: The BESTest Keyform was used to assess the balance function, and based on the results, goals were set in collaboration with the patient. A prioritized treatment plan was then developed, and a 2-week intensive rehabilitation program was implemented.
Outcomes: Improvements were observed in the total BESTest score in some items extracted by Keyform and in other items within the same section. In addition, improvements were observed in some sections of the BESTest that were not included in the Keyform.
Conclusion: The use of the BESTest Keyform in a patient with spinocerebellar ataxia facilitated shared decision-making for goal setting and allowed for prioritization of treatment content. The intervention based on the Keyform may have contributed to improved balance ability in specific items.
