Balance Error Scoring System (BESS)
Balance Error Scoring System (Riemann & Guskiewicz 1999): error counts (max 10 each) across 6 stances totaling 0-60.
Open the calculator → Runs in your browser. Data leaves only if you deliberately send a problem report from the interactive tool.
Example
- Double-leg, firm
- 3
- Single-leg, firm
- 3
- Tandem, firm
- 3
- Double-leg, foam
- 3
- Single-leg, foam
- 3
- Tandem, foam
- 3
Result: BESS 18 errors — higher = worse postural stability.
The tool opens with these values already filled in. Replace them with your own.
What the result means
- 0-60
- Error counts (max 10) across 6 stances on firm/foam surfaces, eyes closed. Higher = worse postural stability (concussion assessment). A performance measure, not a diagnosis.
What you enter
- Double-leg, firm (errors)
- Single-leg, firm (errors)
- Tandem, firm (errors)
- Double-leg, foam (errors)
- Single-leg, foam (errors)
- Tandem, foam (errors)
How this is calculated
Riemann BL, Guskiewicz KM. Effects of mild head injury on postural stability as measured through clinical balance testing (Balance Error Scoring System). J Athl Train. 2000;35(1):19-25. Read the source ↗
A reference and educational tool. Not medical, legal, or financial advice, and not a substitute for clinician judgment.