Balance is typically measured using a combination of clinical assessments and objective testing. As mentioned, clinical tests like the Romberg test or Berg Balance Scale can provide valuable insights into a person's balance capabilities. However, these tests are often qualitative and dependent on the practitioner's observation skills.
Objective measurements of balance often involve biomechanical analysis, which can provide more quantifiable insights. For instance, posturography is a test that measures how well you can maintain steady balance under different conditions. It usually involves standing on a platform that records shifts in weight and body movement. Force plates are another common tool for measuring balance objectively. By analyzing the forces exerted on the plate when a person stands or moves on it, practitioners can glean information about the person's balance, weight distribution, and movement patterns.