Balance Assessment Practices of Saskatchewan Physiotherapists: A Brief Report of Survey Findings

This study was conducted to determine the balance assessment practices of physiotherapists in Saskatchewan. Practising physiotherapists who assess and treat adults with balance and mobility impairments were eligible to participate in this cross-sectional, online survey. The questions investigated the use of balance assessment measures, the balance components assessed, and practice area. Of the 72 respondents, most reported regularly assessing five or more of the nine balance components listed. Movement observation was the most commonly reported measure used, followed by the Berg Balance Scale, single-leg stance test, and tandem standing/walking. Most physiotherapists in Saskatchewan use a variety of tools to assess balance. Gaps in practices related to fall prevention were noted in the mismatch between the tools used and the components reportedly assessed.