The validity and responsiveness of the Chinese version of the mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test

Objective To evaluate the validity and responsiveness of the Chinese version of the mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test(mini-BESTest). Methods A total of 208 stroke patients were evaluated by 2 professionals using both mini-BESTest and Berg balance scale (BBS). All data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, t-test and descriptive statistical analysis. Results Significant correlation was observed between each entry of the mini-BESTest and its domain, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.78 to 0.93 (P<0.05). The scores of whole assessment and the three related domains were significantly correlated between mini-BESTest and BBS results, the correlation coefficients ranging from 0.68 to 0.87 (P<0.05). After 2 weeks of treatment, there was significant improvement in each domain and in the total assessment score (P<0.05). No floor or ceiling effects were observed in the total mini-BESTest scores, but there was a slight ceiling effect in the anticipatory and sensory orientation domains, and a slight floor effect in the reactive postural control domain. Conclusion The mini-BESTest has good validity and responsiveness, and can be applied to evaluate patients after stroke. Key words: Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test; Validity; Reactivity; Stroke