Which tool is commonly used to assess the risk of falls after a stroke?

The Berg Balance Scale is widely recognized as an effective tool for assessing balance and risk of falls, particularly in patients who have experienced a stroke. This scale evaluates a person's ability to maintain balance while performing various functional tasks. It consists of 14 specific tasks that are scored to determine an individual's overall balance performance and identifies their risk factors for falls.

Post-stroke patients often experience impairments in coordination, strength, and balance, all of which can significantly increase their likelihood of falling. Therefore, the Berg Balance Scale provides valuable insights into their stability and functional mobility, allowing healthcare providers to tailor interventions and preventive measures accordingly.

Other tools, such as the Glasgow Coma Scale, primarily assess neurological function rather than balance, and the Mini-Mental State Examination focuses on cognitive impairment rather than physical stability. The MoCA test also assesses cognitive function and is not designed to evaluate balance or fall risk. Thus, the Berg Balance Scale is specifically suited to the needs of stroke patients in fall risk assessment.