The reliability and validity of the Turkish version of Brunel Balance Assessment (BBA-T)

Abstract

Background: The Brunel Balance Assessment Scale (BBA) is a valid, reliable scale for evaluating functional balance and mobility in patients with stroke. It should also be fast, simple, portable and inexpensive for use in clinical practice. Objectives:The aim of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Turkish version of Brunel Balance Assessment (BBA-T) in post-stroke patients. Methods: One hundred and five stroke patients (49 female, 56 male) with a mean age of 65.45 +/- 11.33 years were included. Standardize Mini-Mental Test (SMMT), BBA, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Rivermead Mobility Index (RMI) and Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients (PASS) were performed to the patients. Results: According to correlation analysis, a very strong relationship was found between first and second evaluation total BBA-T scores (r = 0.909). Cronbach's alpha coefficient was excellent. According to the Pearson correlation analysis performed to test inter-observer reliability, a very high correlation (r = 0.946) was observed among BBA total scores performed by the first and second physiotherapists. The BBA-T correlated with the BBS (r = 0.879), RMI (r = 0.862), and PASS (0.847). There was no floor observed for the BBA-T scale in this sample. However, the ceiling effect was found. Conclusions: The results of our study indicate that the Turkish version of BBA-T is a reliable and valid balance and mobility scale that can be used in the rehabilitation of stroke patients.