The Functional Reach Test (FRT) is a simple and quick clinical tool used to assess dynamic standing balance in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and other motor impairments. It measures a child’s ability to reach forward without losing balance, providing insight into postural control and fall risk.
Assessment Method:
- The child stands next to a wall with their arm extended forward at shoulder height.
- They are asked to reach forward as far as possible without stepping or losing balance.
- The distance reached (in cm) is measured from the starting to the ending position of the fingertips.
Clinical Importance:
- Evaluates dynamic balance and postural stability.
- Identifies fall risk in children with CP.
- Monitors progress over time in response to therapy.
- Quick and easy to administer with minimal equipment.
Accessing the FRT Protocol:
Detailed instructions and guidelines for administering the FRT can be found in the following resources:
https://www.carepatron.com/templates/functional-reach-test
Pros of the FRT:
- Simplicity and Efficiency: The FRT is quick to administer, typically taking only a few minutes, and requires minimal equipment—a yardstick or measuring tape secured to a wall. highmarkblueshield.com
- Predictive Validity: The test effectively identifies individuals at increased risk of falls. For example, a reach of less than 6 inches indicates a high risk of falling, 6 to 10 inches suggests a moderate risk, and more than 10 inches denotes a low risk.
- Minimal Equipment: The FRT requires only a measuring device and a wall, making it cost-effective and easy to implement in various settings.
Cons of the FRT:
- Limited Plane of Assessment: The FRT evaluates reach in the forward direction only, not accounting for lateral or backward stability, which are also important for comprehensive balance assessment.
- Requirement for Specific Physical Abilities: Individuals need adequate shoulder range of motion and the cognitive ability to follow instructions, limiting its applicability for some populations.
- Ceiling Effect: The test may not detect subtle balance impairments in high-functioning individuals, as they might easily achieve maximum scores.
In summary, the Functional Reach Test is a valuable tool for assessing anterior-posterior stability and fall risk in various populations. However, clinicians should be aware of its limitations and consider incorporating additional assessments to obtain a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s balance and functional mobility.