Objective
Back
Lateral Step Down Test (LSDT)
View Full Measure
Purpose
To assess hip and leg strength and endurance. Useful as an assessment and outcome measure
All ages
Assesment Type
Patient Group
Cerebral Palsy | Musculoskeletal | Neurodisability (Other) | Neuromuscular
Age Group
Children (3-12 years) | Adolescents (13-17 years) | Young Adult (18+ years)
ICF domain
Activity & Participation | Body Structure & Function
Area of assessment
Balance and co-ordination | Gross Motor
Key description
Description
Standing on leg to be tested in single limb support with the hands on the waist, the knee straight and the foot positioned close to the edge the step
The opposite leg is maintained with the knee in extension
The knee being tested bends until the opposite heel gently contacts the floor and then re-extends the knee to the starting position
Repeat x5 .
5 criteria are noted and scored: positioning of arms, trunk , pelvis, knee and steadiness
Reliability / validity
Inter-rater reliability- 0.83
No specific information about use in children
Strengths / weaknesses
Scoring includes quality of movement
Cost
Free
Equipment required
15cm step
Training required
N/A
Considerations & references
References/ Links
https://www.physio-pedia.com/Lateral_Step_Down_Test
Time to complete
5 minutes
Comments
Easily transferable to any environment . Height of step can vary as long as it is consistent for the tested individual.
If you spot any errors or wish to suggest any amendments to this summary, please contact paediatricmeasures@apcp.org.uk