Balance Sequence
Purpose: To improve body concept and to develop better balance and control both stationary and in movement
Apparatus: None
Method:
These steps are developmentally arranged. Master each step reasonably well before moving to the next step in the sequence.
1. Patient assumes hand and knee position on the floor. Patient raises one hand in the air. When balance is maintained repeat raising the other hand. The goal is to maintain balance for a count of 10.
2. Same as Step 1 but each leg is raised. Same goal as above.
3. Same as step 1 but leg and arm on the same side are raised while balance is maintained. Same goal.
4. Same as Step 1 but leg and arm on opposite sides of body are raised and balance maintained. Same goal.
5. Patient balances on tiptoes for a count of 10.
6. Patient raises smoothly and evenly from a sitting position on the floor while keeping arms folded on chest.
7. Patient maintains balance while walking forward and backward on knees.
8. Patient maintains balance for a count of 10 while standing on one foot. (Alternate feet.)
9. Steps 5 and 8 are done with eyes closed.
10. Balance maintained while jumping on one foot with eyes closed. (Alternate feet.)
11. Balance maintained while jumping with both feet and with eyes closed. Patient is instructed to turn 1/4 or 1/2 turns while jumping.
12. Same as in Step 11 but on one foot. (Alternate feet.)
13. While standing, patient is to maintain balance while moving arm and leg on same side of body. Arm and leg are to be kept straight and pivoted from the shoulder and hip in an arc to the side. Assistant gives command as to which arm and leg to move. Goal is to complete 10 commands accurately, rhythmically and in balance.
14. Same as in Step 13 but arm and leg on opposite sides of body are moved.
15. Same as in Step 13 but limbs are to move forward.
16. Same as in Step 13 but limbs are to move forward.
17. Same as in Step 13 but limbs on opposite sides of body are to move forward.
18. Same as in Step 13 but limbs on opposite sides of body are to move backward.
Aspects to be Emphasized:
1. Equal ability on both sides of body.
2. Smoothness and rhythm in movement, without stress.
3. Ability to continue performance while watching a stationary or a moving target.
4. Ability to perform easily while discussing unrelated subject.
