Factors affecting functional reach scores in youth with typical development.

PURPOSE Functional Reach Test scores were examined for the effects of traditional and alternate methods and subject characteristics. METHODS Eighty subjects aged 7 to 16 years were tested. Effects of measurement method (from finger-to-finger or from toe-to-finger) and style of reach (1 or 2 arms) were investigated. Five subject variables were analyzed for interactions among the methods and groups defined by subject characteristics. RESULTS Measurement method and style of reach showed a significant interaction. Interaction of method with subject characteristics was significant for age, height, and base of support only. Height groups by quartile were significantly different and scores increased with height, especially in toes-to-finger methods. CONCLUSIONS Functional Reach Test scores were affected by method of reach and method of measurement. Height categories may be more useful when using the test for discriminative purposes, especially with toes-to-finger methods.