Reference value of 3 meter backward walk test in children
Description
Balance tests are helpful in assessing a population with a variety of conditions. Computerized dynamic posturography and other tools for balance assessment are expensive, difficult to handle and use, and not readily available. Thus, basic screening exams like the 3-meter backward walk test (3MBWT) are developed. The 3MBWT is used to assess backward walking mobility, balance, and the risk of falling. 3MBWT is a quick, easy, and clinically standardized way to evaluate backward walking and is therefore a tool for balance assessment. The research’s purpose was to establish reference values for the 3-meter backward walk test in school-going children. Demographic details of 455 participants of both genders were noted, and then they were asked to perform a 3-meter backward walk on a tiled floor marked with black tape, and time was noted in seconds using a stopwatch. The 3MBWT median and ranges are stated to be 3.11 (1.41–9.55) seconds for the test with shoes and 2.79 (1.48–2.72) seconds if the test performed without shoes. To get a precise evaluation, the geometric mean (95% CI) was employed, which is as follows: 3.138 (3.19–3.40), 2.841 (2.88–3.05) for with and without shoes, respectively. The research was effective in determining the normative reference value of 3MBWT in subjects aged 8 to 14 for tests performed with and without shoes. The study also found gender- and age specific reference values of 3MBWT.