Single Leg Balance Test
A predictor of Ankle Sprains
Ankle sprains are a common injury and can be associated with significant disability for some. Chrintz et al noted balance deficits in individuals with functional ankle instability (FAI). Those with FAI had a shorter balancing time than individuals without FAI. The single leg balance test has been developed as a quick test to help predict those who are more susceptible to ankle sprains.
The single leg balance test (SLB) was investigated for its ability to predict future ankle sprains in varsity and intercollegiate athletes. The researchers found a significant association between a positive SLB test and future ankle sprains. The relative risk for an ankle sprain in subjects with a positive SLB test was 2.54. It was also found that subjects who had a positive SLB test and who did not tape their ankles had a relative risk of a future ankle sprain of 8.82.
Single Leg Balance Test
- Perform the test 3 times each with eyes open and eyes closed
- Stand on one leg without shoes or socks
- Place hands on hips
- Stand without leg touching
Measure:
- Length of time the individual can maintain balance for up to 60 seconds
Stop the test if:
- Legs touch each other
- Weight bearing foot moves on the floor
- Non weight bearing foot touches the floor
- Hands are removed from the hips
Positive Test:
- The average time the position is held for is less than 10 seconds for either eyes open or eyes closed
The single leg balance test is a valid and reliable tool to help predict those athletes who are susceptible to future ankle sprains. Ankle taping and proprioceptive training is indicated for individuals with a positive single leg balance test.
Trojian, TH, McKeag, DB. Single Leg balance test to identify risk of ankle sprains. Br J. Sports Med 2006;40 (7) 610-613.
Chrintz H, Falster O, Roed J. Single beg postural equilibrium test. Scand J Med Sci Sports 1991; 1(4):224-226.