One of the signs of a concussion is poor balance. An athlete's balance and equilibrium can be tested quickly on the sideline through use of the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS). The BESS consists of 3 tests lasting 20 seconds each, performed on two different surfaces, firm and foam:

• The athlete first stands with the feet narrowly together, the hands on the hips, and the eyes closed (double leg stance). The athlete holds this stance for 20 seconds while the number of balance errors (opening the eyes, hands coming off hips, a step, stumble or fall, moving the hips more than 30 degrees, lifting the forefoot or heel, or remaining out of testing position for more than 5 seconds) are recorded.
  
  

• The test is then repeated with a single-leg stance using the non-dominant foot, and
  
  

• A third time using a heel-toe stance with the non-dominant foot in the rear (tandem stance).
  
  

• All three tests are performed on a firm surface (grass, turf, court), and again on a piece of medium-density foam (a piece of foam can easily be carried in a travel trunk or equipment bag for road games).

	Reprint Policy Return to Head Injury Home Page

ADVERTISEMENT
 

Related Articles

 Concussion Grading Systems And Return-To-Play Guidelines: A Comparison
 Determining Loss Of Consciousness In Athletes
 Post-Concussion Signs And Symptoms: A Checklist
 Standardized Assessment of Concussion (SAC)
 Managing Concussions In High School Sports: A Proposed Model
 Concussions: Advice For Parents Of Youth Athletes

Printer-friendly Version

Send MomsTeam Feedback