Seven Basic Steps 1. Sit and rise from a chair. Watch for ability to sit and rise in a smooth, controlled movement without balance loss or use of armrests.
Poor performance signifies lower extremity dysfunction.
Watch for ability to stand steadily, unassisted without balance loss or dizziness. Poor performance signifies postural hypotension or vestibular dysfunction. Stand, with eyes closed, arms at sides, and feet about 3 inches apart. Watch for ability to stand without support and without sway or balance loss. Poor performance signifies proprioceptive loss.