Functional outcome measures are essential tools in physical therapy, offering quantifiable insights into a patient’s physical abilities and overall health. These tests, along with other evaluation points like the patient’s subjective report, help physical therapists (PTs) evaluate baseline function, identify areas for improvement, and track progress throughout treatment. Here, we explore seven widely used functional outcome measures, including the scoring systems they employ, what they reveal about a patient’s health or movement, and how they shape treatment plans. Our team at EW Motion Therapy uses outcome measures on each patient we see, along with other important evaluation points, so we can get a good idea of what the patient needs to move, feel, and live better. Even if you decide not to get physical therapy with us, it can still be helpful to understand what these tests do the next time you need physical therapy.
Why are these tests important?
Functional outcome measures offer objective ways to assess a patient’s physical abilities, monitor progress, and guide treatment plans. These measures are often used during the initial evaluation to establish a baseline, periodically throughout care to track improvements, and at discharge to determine overall success. They provide standardized methods for identifying deficits in strength, balance, mobility, or coordination and allow therapists to communicate progress effectively with patients and other healthcare providers. By incorporating these tools, physical therapists can create personalized, data-driven interventions to help patients regain function and improve their quality of life.
The 30-second sit-to-stand test
The 30-second sit-to-stand test measures lower body strength, endurance, and functional mobility. Patients are asked to sit in a standard-height chair and rise to a full standing position as many times as possible within 30 seconds. The PT counts the number of successful repetitions. The number of repetitions completed is compared to age- and gender-specific norms. For example, a healthy adult aged 60–64 might complete 12–17 repetitions. Scores below the normative range indicate potential lower extremity weakness or mobility deficits.
This test evaluates the strength and endurance of the quadriceps and glutes, critical for activities like standing, walking, and climbing stairs. A low score may also suggest balance challenges or decreased functional independence. The test results guide therapists in designing strength and endurance regimens and serve as benchmarks to measure progress in functional lower body strength. Therapy may focus on strengthening the lower body through targeted exercises such as leg presses, squats, or resistance band training. The PT might also incorporate balance training to address instability during transitions.
The timed-up-and-go (TUG) test
The TUG test assesses mobility, balance, and fall risk. The patient starts seated, stands up, walks 10 feet, turns around, walks back, and sits down. The PT times the entire process in seconds. A score of ≤10 seconds typically indicates normal mobility for healthy adults. Scores >12 seconds suggest an increased fall risk, especially in older adults. Times >30 seconds may indicate severe mobility impairments. Results highlight specific mobility challenges, allowing therapists to prioritize interventions that improve walking speed, coordination, and stability.
This test evaluates how well a patient transitions between sitting, standing, and walking. Poor performance may point to lower extremity weakness, balance deficits, or gait abnormalities. The PT may focus on gait training, including walking exercises and dynamic balance activities. Environmental modifications, like removing tripping hazards, might also be recommended to reduce fall risk.
The Berg balance scale
The Berg balance scale is a 14-item assessment that evaluates static and dynamic balance. Tasks include standing on one foot, reaching forward, and transferring from sitting to standing.
Each item is scored on a 5-point scale (0 = unable to perform; 4 = performs independently), with a maximum score of 56. A score of ≤45 indicates an increased fall risk, and scores <36 are associated with a high likelihood of falling.
This comprehensive test identifies specific areas of balance deficiency. Poor scores may indicate reduced proprioception, muscular weakness, or vestibular dysfunction.
The scale allows PTs to customize balance programs and measure progress as the patient gains stability and confidence. Balance-focused interventions, such as tandem walking, balance board exercises, or proprioceptive training, are commonly used. Strengthening the core and lower extremities may also be emphasized.
The single-leg stance test
The single-leg stance test requires a patient to balance on one leg for as long as possible, with the eyes open and closed. Time is recorded in seconds. Healthy adults aged 18–39 typically balance for 43–53 seconds with eyes open. Times decrease with age; individuals over 70 may balance for 10 seconds or less. Closing the eyes reduces time significantly across all age groups.
This test assesses unilateral balance, lower extremity strength, and proprioceptive function. Poor performance could signal weakness, vestibular deficits, or sensory integration issues. Results help identify asymmetries or deficits that affect daily activities and guide balance training programs. Therapy might include exercises like single-leg deadlifts, lateral leg raises, or stability drills on foam surfaces to improve balance and strength.
The functional reach test (FRT)
The functional reach test measures how far a patient can reach forward while standing without losing balance. It evaluates dynamic balance and stability. Reach distance is measured in inches. A reach of >10 inches is considered normal, but a reach of <6 inches suggests a significant fall risk.
This test identifies limitations in trunk stability and postural control. A short reach may also reflect fear of falling or joint stiffness. The FRT highlights balance challenges that require targeted interventions to reduce fall risk and improve functional mobility. Therapy might include exercises to improve core strength, postural alignment, and confidence in dynamic movements.
The Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance (CTSIB-M)
The CTSIB-M evaluates how well a patient uses visual, vestibular, and somatosensory systems for balance. Patients stand on firm and foam surfaces with eyes open and closed. Time is recorded in seconds for each condition, with a maximum of 30 seconds per trial. Inability to maintain balance in specific conditions indicates sensory deficits.
The CTSIB-M pinpoints whether visual, vestibular, or somatosensory impairments are affecting balance. This test informs a multisensory approach to balance rehabilitation, ensuring a comprehensive and tailored program. Sensory-specific balance exercises are typically introduced. For example, standing on an unstable surface may improve somatosensory input, while practicing with eyes closed challenges the vestibular system.
The 10-meter walk test
The 10-meter walk test measures walking speed, an important indicator of functional mobility and overall health. Patients walk 10 meters at a comfortable pace while the time is recorded. Speed is calculated in meters per second (m/s). Normal walking speed for healthy adults is 1.2–1.4 m/s. Speeds <1.0 m/s may indicate a risk for falls or functional limitations.
Walking speed reflects lower extremity strength, cardiovascular fitness, and gait efficiency. A slow pace may indicate weakness, balance issues, or joint stiffness. The test results guide the progression of walking-based therapies and inform decisions about assistive device use. Therapy may include gait training, strengthening exercises, and interventions to improve coordination and cardiovascular endurance.
Functional outcome measures like the ones we’ve discussed provide invaluable data about a patient’s physical capabilities. By using these scoring systems, physical therapists can identify areas of weakness, tailor interventions, and track progress, ultimately helping patients achieve their rehabilitation goals and improve their quality of life. These tests are just some of the many evaluation points physical therapists use to get to know patients - our team at EW Motion Therapy not only uses these measures, but also goes over your medical history, current symptoms, and goals to paint the full picture of who you are as a person. To learn more about what physical therapy might cost for you, click the button below to download our free pricing guide.
