Semin Speech Lang 2014; 35(03): 186-195
DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1384680
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Clinical Assessment of Balance in Adults with Concussion

Rebecca J. Reed-Jones
1   Department of Applied Human Sciences, Faculty of Science, University Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
,
Nicholas G. Murray
2   Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Ph.D. Program, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, Texas
,
Douglas W. Powell
3   Department of Physical Therapy, Campbell University, Buies Creek, North Carolina
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
12 August 2014 (online)

Abstract

Balance is a key component to the assessment of concussion injury; however, the efficacies of clinical tests used are currently under debate. It is questionable whether currently accepted methods of standing balance assessment quantify balance disturbances sufficiently to support decisions on recovery and return to play. Recent evidence of balance abnormalities postconcussion that linger beyond the typical 3- to 5-day recovery period support arguments that currently available standing balance tests are not sensitive enough to determine recovery of function. This article discusses the current clinical tests used in the assessment of concussion in adults and their limitations and the evidence supporting continued balance dysfunction. Implications for the future of balance assessment in concussed adults and recommendations to clinicians for best practices are presented.

 
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