On the Berg Balance Scale, a score of less than which value indicates a risk of falling?

• A. Less than 45
• B. Less than 50
• C. Greater than 45
• D. Equal to 40

Answer: (A)

The Berg Balance Scale quantifies functional balance across a 14-task exam, with higher scores meaning better balance (maximum is 56). A score below 45 is the commonly used threshold to indicate increased fall risk, because lower performance across standing, turning, and dynamic tasks correlates with a higher likelihood of falls. This cutoff helps clinicians decide when to implement balance training and fall-prevention strategies. While thresholds can vary by population, the standard NPTE teaching point is that scoring under 45 signals higher fall risk, whereas a score above 45 suggests comparatively better balance.