4-Stage Balance Test (CDC STEADI): free online stopwatch and protocol

Protocol

Static balance in four stances of increasing difficulty.

1. Show each stance, then let the patient take it without support. Stand next to them for safety.
2. Stage 1: feet side by side. Stage 2: semi-tandem, the instep of one foot touching the big toe of the other.
3. Stage 3: tandem, one foot directly in front of the other, heel touching toe. Stage 4: stand on one foot.
4. Each stance is held 10 s. Stop as soon as the patient moves their feet or needs support: the test ends at that stance.

Norms and references

Not holding the tandem stance (stage 3) for 10 s: increased risk of falling. Holding one foot (stage 4) < 5 s: higher risk (CDC STEADI, 2017).

Why Rehab Timer?

• One-tap stopwatch, screen kept on during the test
• Speeds and clinical thresholds computed for you
• History, evolution charts and PDF report per patient
• A free stopwatch with laps for any other test

Other tests

• Timed Up and Go (TUG)Functional mobility and fall risk
• 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT)Distance walked in 6 minutes
• 10-Metre Walk Test (10MWT)Gait speed
• 30-Second Chair Stand (30CST)Number of chair stands in 30 seconds
• Five Times Sit to Stand (5×STS)Lower-limb strength and fall risk
• Four Square Step Test (FSST)Dynamic balance and stepping in all directions
• Single-Leg StanceStatic balance on one leg
• 2-Minute Walk Test (2MWT)Distance walked in 2 minutes
• 2-Minute Step Test (2MST)Aerobic endurance: knee raises in place in 2 minutes
• Free stopwatchTime any other test and give it your own name