Functional Reach Test
Also written as: FRT
A quick bedside assessment measuring the maximum distance a standing patient can reach forward beyond arm's length without stepping, used to screen for balance deficits and fall risk in older adults.
Full Definition
The Functional Reach Test (FRT) is a standardized clinical tool in which a patient stands beside a wall-mounted ruler and reaches as far forward as possible without taking a step or losing balance. The distance reached is recorded in centimetres or inches and compared against age-stratified normative values. In geriatric rehabilitation contexts, scores below 15 cm are generally considered indicative of significant fall risk. Editors will encounter this term in rehabilitation progress notes, physiotherapy assessments, and discharge summaries. It is distinct from the Timed Up and Go test, which also involves gait, not solely static balance.
Usage
Usage note: Write as 'Functional Reach Test' with initial capitals on first use; 'FRT' is acceptable on subsequent use in clinical documents. Do not conflate with 'functional assessment' generically.
In Context
- "The physiotherapist recorded a Functional Reach Test score of 12 cm, indicating high fall risk and prompting referral to the falls prevention program." — Physiotherapy assessment report
- "Baseline FRT scores were documented on admission and repeated at four-week intervals to track balance improvement." — Rehabilitation progress note