The Single Leg Stand Test is used to evaluate your mobility and risk of falling. Instructions are presented below, but it is a very simple evaluation. Stand on one leg for as many seconds as you can, and record the information in the table below.
1. The Single Leg Stance Test (and video instruction)
The Single Leg Stance Test (SLST)
Description: A measure of the ability to stand on one leg and maintain balance
Equipment: Stopwatch
Patient Instructions: “I am going to time how long you can stand on one leg for each leg, keeping your hands on your hips. We will randomly pick one leg to start. I will start the clock when your foot lifts off the floor. You may balance using any method that you like as long as you are on one leg and the other leg is unsupported. I will stop the clock either when your foot touches the ground, your hands come off your hip, you more your standing foot or the opposite foot braces against the standing leg.”
- Subject begins in quiet standing
- Hands on hips
Therapist Instructions: The test should, ideally, be performed with the patient’s shoes off. Demonstrate the test for the patient. Use a coin to determine randomly which leg they will do first each time. Repeat three times for each leg. Average the scores.
Test Implications
Balance and Stability are crucial to anyone’s ability to safely move, interact with their environment, and perform daily activities. They are also of great importance to your participation in sports. The longer you are able to balance the better.
To learn more schedule a call with one of our knee experts – it’s free. Just click here. There are more online knee assessment tools, beyond the Single Leg Stance Test, that we can discuss on our call with you.
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