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Printed on 4/21/2026
For informational purposes only. This is not medical advice.
The Functional Reach Test measures the maximum distance a person can reach forward while standing in a fixed base of support. It is a practical bedside/postural-control screen used in geriatrics and rehabilitation to identify balance impairment and fall-risk signal.
Formula: FRT result is the best forward reach distance in centimeters without stepping.
FRT is a long-used clinical balance measure with evidence linking shorter reach to higher fall risk in older populations.
Lower reach distance indicates greater balance impairment and increased fall-risk signal.
Use for quick standing-balance screening in older adults and rehabilitation patients with mobility concerns.
Results depend on standardization of posture/setup and may be influenced by shoulder mobility or pain.
For related assessments, see Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti POMA and Timed Up and Go.
Disclaimer: This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health.
A 14-task balance assessment scored 0-56 to quantify postural control and fall-risk signal.
GeriatricsA structured gait-and-balance assessment (0-28) used to estimate fall risk in older adults.
GeriatricsAssess mobility and fall risk with the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test. TUG >12 seconds indicates high fall risk. Times the performance of standing, walking 3 meters, turning, and returning to seated.
GeriatricsCalculate usual gait speed over 4 meters (m/s), a key functional vital sign in older adults.