Validity and test-retest reliability of the brief balance evaluation systems test in typically developing children aged 7 to 10 years
Keywords:
postural control, Brief-BESTest, reliability, validity, typically developing childrenAbstract
Background: This study evaluated the concurrent validity and test-retest reliability of the Brief Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Brief-BESTest) in typically developing children aged 7–10 years, a critical period for postural control development. We hypothesized that the Brief-BESTest would show excellent test-retest reliability and moderate to good concurrent validity compared to laboratory-based balance assessments.
Materials and Methods: An observational study included 26 typically developing children aged 7 to 10 years and 11 months. Participants completed the Brief-BESTest, the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (mCTSIB), and the unilateral stance test. Validity was analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient to compare Brief-BESTest scores with sway velocity data from force plate assessments. Test-retest reliability was determined by administering the Brief-BESTest twice, eight days apart, using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).
Results: The Brief-BESTest showed excellent test-retest reliability (ICC (3,1) = 0.91; 95% CI = 0.80–0.96, p < 0.001). The SEM and MDC were 0.78 and 1.25, respectively. Concurrent validity showed moderate correlations with the Foam-eye open condition of the mCTSIB (r = 0.50, p = 0.01) and unilateral stance tests (Left- eye open: r = 0.48, p = 0.01; Right- eye open: r = 0.52, p = 0.01).
Conclusion: The Brief-BESTest is a reliable and valid tool for assessing postural control in children. These findings highlight the potential of the Brief-BESTest as a practical balance assessment tool in pediatric clinical settings. However, further studies with diverse age groups are recommended to strengthen the generalizability of these results.
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