Article ID: 11785
Objective: We examined the validity, reliability, responsiveness, and interpretability of the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Mini-BESTest) in patients during the acute phase of a stroke.
Method: This study included 42 patients in the acute phase of a stroke. We examined the correlations between Mini-BESTest scores and those of other similar scales, the internal consistency of the Mini-BESTest, the correlation between score changes when using the Mini-BESTest and when using the existing balance evaluation scale, and the discriminative ability of the Mini-BESTest in assessing walking independence.
Results: Mini-BESTest scores showed significant correlations (r = 0.36–0.83) with balance scores and other similar measures, and good internal consistency (α = 0.88). Score improvements when using the Mini-BESTest and when using the existing balance evaluation scale showed a significant correlation (r = 0.84), but the discriminative ability of the Mini-BESTest in assessing walking independence was low.
Conclusion: We have suggested that the Mini-BESTest is a valid tool for assessing the balance ability of patients during the acute phase of a stroke. We have demonstrated the validity, reliability, responsiveness, and interpretability of the Mini-BESTest.
