The Berg Balance Scale (BBS) measures static and dynamic balance through 14 everyday tasks, from standing up out of a chair to standing on one leg. Each task is scored from 0 (unable) to 4 (independent), for a total out of 56.
Katherine Berg developed it in 1989 for older adults, and it is now used across stroke, Parkinson's, vestibular and general rehabilitation to estimate fall risk and track progress. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Zdrovia: https://www.zdrovia.ca/resources/berg-balance-scale/
Balance Assessment
Berg Balance Scale Calculator
Score the 14 tasks from 0 (unable) to 4 (independent) for the total out of 56 and the fall-risk band. Score the lowest level that applies.
Total score
0 of 14 items scored
Score every item to see the result
Item breakdown
These results are estimates based on published clinical data and are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation. Consult a licensed aesthetic practitioner before beginning any treatment. Individual results vary.
Zdrovia's smart blocks drop validated scales into the visit note, keep every item score, and graph the total across visits so the trend is visible at a glance. See how smart blocks work →
Berg Balance Scale items
| # | Task | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sitting to standing | 0–4 |
| 2 | Standing unsupported | 0–4 |
| 3 | Sitting unsupported | 0–4 |
| 4 | Standing to sitting | 0–4 |
| 5 | Transfers | 0–4 |
| 6 | Standing with eyes closed | 0–4 |
| 7 | Standing with feet together | 0–4 |
| 8 | Reaching forward with outstretched arm | 0–4 |
| 9 | Retrieving an object from the floor | 0–4 |
| 10 | Turning to look behind | 0–4 |
| 11 | Turning 360 degrees | 0–4 |
| 12 | Placing alternate foot on a stool | 0–4 |
| 13 | Standing with one foot in front | 0–4 |
| 14 | Standing on one foot | 0–4 |
Total 0–56. Equipment: stopwatch, ruler, two chairs (one with arms), a step or stool about 20 cm high.
Berg Balance Scale interpretation
| Score | Fall risk | Typical mobility |
|---|---|---|
| 0–20 | High | Wheelchair-bound |
| 21–40 | Medium | Walks with assistance |
| 41–56 | Low | Independent |
A cut-off of 45 is widely used for increased fall risk in older adults. Published minimal detectable change in older adults is about 4 to 7 points depending on the starting score.
Score it straight into the chart
Zdrovia's smart blocks drop validated scales into the visit note, keep every item score, and graph the total across visits so the trend is visible at a glance.
Scoring tips
Score the lowest level that applies to the patient's performance. Where an item allows more than one attempt, score the best. Demonstrate each task, give the instruction as written, and stay close enough to guard without touching unless needed.
Timed items are where scores drift between raters, so use a stopwatch rather than counting. For the reaching item, measure from the fingertips at the start position to the furthest point reached, with a ruler fixed at shoulder height.
Using the score
The total sorts patients into broad risk bands, but the item scores show where to intervene: someone who loses points on turning and single-leg stance needs different work from someone who struggles with sit-to-stand. The Berg has a ceiling effect in active older adults and doesn't assess walking, so pair it with a gait measure such as the Tinetti or timed walk where falls are the concern.
Adding gait? Tinetti balance and gait test →
Screening falls risk: Morse Fall Scale calculator →
References
Other clinical assessment references