Factors influencing the brief balance evaluation systems test (Brief-BESTest) in school-aged children between five to seven years old: A cross-sectional study

Introduction

Postural control is essential for maintaining stability during movement and plays a key role in children's physical development, enabling daily activities. The brief balance evaluation systems test (Brief-BESTest) assesses six key components of postural control through eight items and has proven reliable and valid for pediatric populations. However, research on factors affecting Brief-BESTest scores in school-aged children remains limited. Recognizing these factors supports early balance issue detection and targeted pediatric physiotherapy.

Objective

To identify factors influencing Brief-BESTest scores in children aged five to seven years.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 90 typically developing children (42 boys, 48 girls; mean age 76.21 ± 9.62 months). Anthropometric measurements were collected, and postural control was evaluated using the Brief-BESTest. Univariate analyses identified significant variables, which were further examined through multilinear regression to determine predictors of Brief-BESTest scores, with a p-value of 0.05 considered significant.

Results

The final regression model accounted for 40 % of the variance in Brief-BESTest scores. Age and BMI emerged as significant predictors, summarized by the equation: Brief-BESTest score = 8.75 + (0.17 × Age) – (0.15 × BMI). Older children demonstrated better balance scores, while higher BMI was linked to poorer postural control.

Conclusion

Age and BMI are key factors influencing balance in young children. These findings can assist pediatric physiotherapists in tailoring interventions based on individual characteristics. Future research should explore additional variables such as socioeconomic status, cognitive function, muscle strength, physical activity, and cultural or environmental influences on postural control.