Functional Reach Test
Also written as: FRT — Functional Reach Test
A standardized clinical measure of dynamic balance assessed by recording how far an individual can reach forward beyond arm's length while maintaining a fixed base of support.
Full Definition
The Functional Reach Test (FRT) is a standardized outcome measure developed to quantify dynamic balance and fall risk in clinical and rehabilitation populations. It is administered with a yardstick or tape measure fixed to a wall, and the score is the distance in inches or centimetres that a subject can reach forward without stepping or losing balance. Editors working on rehabilitation outcome reports must render the test name with capital letters and may encounter 'Modified Functional Reach Test' for individuals tested in seated positions. Confusing the FRT with the Timed Up and Go test or the Berg Balance Scale is a common editorial error in rehabilitation documentation.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalise as a proper test name. Distinguish from 'Modified Functional Reach Test,' which is administered in sitting and used for wheelchair users.
In Context
- "Baseline and discharge Functional Reach Test scores were recorded to document improvement in dynamic balance over the course of the inpatient program." — Inpatient rehabilitation outcome report
- "The editor flagged 'functional reach test' (lowercase) for capitalisation, as it is a proper outcome measure with an established standardized protocol." — Clinical research manuscript