Impact of the Number of Steps on the Fukuda Stepping Test in Older Adults

ABSTRACT

Aims: This study aimed to compare performance, within-subject variability and test–retest reliability between the 50-step and 100-step Fukuda test in healthy older adults. Methods: Fifty participants aged between 65 and 75 years performed three trials of both the 50- and 100-step tests on two separate sessions seven days apart. Their final foot position was measured relative to the starting line. Results: Absolute values of body rotation and lateral and longitudinal displacements were significantly larger on the 100-step than on the 50-step test. The mean standard deviations of these measures on the three trials were significantly larger on the 100- compared to the 50-step test, indicating larger within-subject variability. Intraclass correlation coefficients were similar for both tests, suggesting comparable test–retest reliability. Conclusion: The 50-step test is recommended over the 100-step as it may have reduced measurement error.

KEYWORDS:

• Fukuda stepping test
• older adults
• test–retest reliability
• vestibular rehabilitation
• within-subject variability