L. Kahn, MS, PT, MossRehab Hospital, Philadelphia, PA

S. McGhee, MPT MossRehab Hospital, Philadelphia, PA

J. Torkish, MPT Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA

R. Wellmon, MS, PT, NCS, Widener University, Institute for Physical Therapy Education, Chester, PA

 

The functional reach test (FRT) has been established as a reliable and valid indicator of postural stability. However, few studies have examined functional reach for persons diagnosed with a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) and there is little research investigating the modified functional reach test (MFRT) which looks at forward reach in sitting. The purpose of this study was to examine functional reach scores for elderly individuals diagnosed with a CVA. Sixty-six subjects admitted for acute inpatient rehabilitation were recruited by convenience sampling. Functional reach was assessed using procedures described by Duncan for the FRT and Lynch for the MFRT. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were used to examine FRT and MFRT performance by functional outcome. Functional outcome was determined using the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Significant differences were found between admit and discharge FRT and MFRT scores and for forward reach when subjects were categorized by level of functional independence. The descriptive data showed the expected range of performance for forward reach by functional outcome. Individuals scoring lower on the functional reach tests had poorer functional outcomes. The FRT and MFRT are measures of postural control that can be easily implemented into clinical practice and may have importance for studies examining balance.