Observed sources of patient induced error during the Spinal Balance Test (S.B.T.).
The purpose of this entry is to outline various patient controlled influences which may affect the accuracy of the supine spinal balance test. Motivation for this study grew out of the need to maintain accurate and uniform test results, and a desire to discover possible causes of ill defined and or time consuming readings in some patients.

This entry does not include discussion on those variables caused by the doctor, which may also induce inaccuracy into the test. For doctor induced errors click here.

Patient influenced factors of error:
1. The presence of rear pocket items, wallet, handkerchief, etc.
2. Asymmetrical table handle grip by the patient while pulling down and pushing up.
3. Ponytails or large hair clips worn on the posterior aspect of the head which may prevent a relaxed and natural head position on the headpiece.
4. Earrings, Kleenex or other items held in the patients hands while they are performing the pull down and push up cycle.
5. The patient pulling down an excessive distance causing the push up phase to be awkward or imbalanced.
6. The patient slipping their grip while pulling down or pushing up.
7. Unequal pulling - pushing force due to pain weakness or disability.
8. Pushing or pulling in a jerked motion, rather than in a smooth and steady manner.
9. Low back or lower extremity pain causing guarding and tension in the hips and legs.
10. D.C. or self manipulation or massage 72 hours prior to being checked.
11. Incorrect shoes - boots, sandals, high heels - or shoes that are too loose.
12. Use of muscle relaxants, sedatives or heavy pain medications. (This is a difficult factor to isolate - too many variables - but we feel that these medications do have an effect on the spinal balance test.)