Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS): Measuring Child Balance

The Pediatric Balance Scale helps therapists measure balance skills in children with motor challenges. This performance test identifies fall risks and supports effective treatment planning.

Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) assessment form PDF for measuring functional balance.
PBS

Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS)

The Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) modifies the Berg Balance Scale to assess functional balance in school-aged children. With 14 specific tasks, it helps therapists measure stability in kids with mild to moderate motor impairments. It's a reliable method for tracking progress in physical therapy settings.

Category

Mobility
Rehabilitation
Movement System

Disease

Assessment
Rehabilitation
Clinical Measurement

Source

(Franjoine et al., 2006)

Author Name

Franjoine, M.R., Gunther, J.S. & Taylor, M.J. (2003)

What is Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS)

The Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) is a trusted tool for checking functional balance in school-aged kids. It helps therapists spot stability issues. Based on the adult Berg Balance Scale, this version is tweaked for children. It includes fourteen specific tasks that mimic everyday movements and common play activities. Kids perform actions like standing on one leg, reaching forward, or stepping onto a stool. Each item gets scored from zero to four based on how well they do it, with a top total score of 56 indicating excellent functional balance control. It’s quick to use, taking about 15 minutes, and doesn’t need fancy equipment. Clinicians use it to track progress in children with cerebral palsy or other motor delays. The results help guide therapy plans, ensuring exercises target the right areas for improved safety and independence in daily life.

PBS Scoring

The Pediatric Balance Scale can be scored using one main approach: a cumulative total based on performance tasks. You will rate the child on 14 specific items, such as standing on one leg or reaching forward. Each task gets a score from 0, meaning lowest function, to 4 for full independence. Once you have finished the list, simply add up the numbers to get a total out of 56 points. Higher totals show better balance skills, while lower numbers suggest a risk of falls. It is a practical way to spot issues early and track how well a kid responds to therapy.

View scoring form

Advantages

Reliable data

Provides consistent measurements for clinical research.

Diagnostic accuracy

Enables precise identification of patient health status.

Efficient collection

Streamlines research data gathering process.

Outcome tracking

Measures healthcare intervention results systematically.

15
Minutes
14
Questions

Streamline your Pediatric Balance Scale assessments with WeGuide

Digitise your Pediatric Balance Scale workflow. Automate scoring and track motor development for better patient care.

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