Relationships between the Sections of the Brief-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and the Gait Speed of Inpatients with Stroke

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationships between sections of the Brief-Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) and the gait speed of inpatients with stroke. [Participants and Methods] Thirty-five hospitalized stroke patients who were able to walk under supervision were enrolled. The Brief-BESTest was conducted and individuals' comfortable walking speed (CWS) was measured. For statistical analysis, Spearman's rank correlation between each section of Brief-BESTest and CWS was calculated. [Results] There was a strong correlation between CWS and the Brief-BESTest total score, and a moderate correlation with sections I, III, IV, and VI. A weak correlation was found with section V, and no significant correlation was found with Section II. [Conclusion] All sections except II showed an association with CWS. Multiple balance components were associated with the walking speed of inpatients with stroke.