Short Physical Performance Battery [SPPB-3]

Description

The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB-3) is a brief assessment tool used to measure physical performance and lower-extremity functional capacity. It is primarily used in older adults to assess mobility, strength, balance, and overall functional ability.

Purpose

The main purpose of the SPPB is to provide an overall assessment of physical functioning through tasks involving balance, walking performance, and repeated chair stands. It can also be used to monitor functional status and identify reduced mobility or increased risk of functional decline.

Components and Scoring

The SPPB includes three main tests: Balance Test, Gait Speed Test, and Chair Stand Test. Each component is typically scored from 0 to 4 points, and the scores are summed to produce a total score ranging from 0 to 12. Higher scores indicate better physical performance.

Applications

The SPPB is widely used in geriatrics, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, and clinical research, particularly for assessing mobility, lower-extremity function, physical performance, and functional capacity in older adults.

References

Guralnik, J. M., Simonsick, E. M., Ferrucci, L., et al. (1994). A short physical performance battery assessing lower extremity function: Association with self-reported disability and prediction of mortality and nursing home admission. Journal of Gerontology, 49(2), M85–M94.

Bauer, J. M., & Sieber, C. C. (2008). Assessment of physical performance in older adults: Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB).

Puts, M. T. E., Toubasi, S., Andrew, M. K., & Diong, S. (2017). Instruments to assess physical performance in older adults: A systematic review. Age and Ageing, 46(3), 359–368.