Short answer
Five simple checks, done with a helper close by, can flag fall risk: the 30-second chair stand, the four-stage balance test, the Timed Up and Go, a standing reach and a walking head-turn check. The first three come from the CDC STEADI fall prevention program1. Struggling with any of them, a fall in the past year or feeling unsteady are good reasons to book a balance evaluation.
Answered by Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPS, Certified Vestibular Specialist and Therapeutic Pain Specialist. Updated October 18, 2026.
How do I do the tests safely?
Have a helper stand beside you, use a sturdy chair against a wall, wear supportive shoes and clear the area. Stop if you feel dizzy or unsteady. Do not try them alone, and if you have fallen recently or feel very unsteady, skip the tests and book an evaluation instead.
What are the five tests?
- 30-second chair stand: count how many times you can stand up fully from a chair, arms crossed, in 30 seconds. A below-average score for your age suggests fall risk1.
- Four-stage balance test: hold feet side by side, then semi-tandem, tandem (heel to toe) and on one leg, 10 seconds each. Not holding tandem stance for 10 seconds suggests increased risk1.
- Timed Up and Go: stand up, walk 10 feet at your normal pace, turn, walk back and sit down. Taking 12 seconds or more suggests increased risk1.
- Reach test: standing beside a wall, reach forward as far as you comfortably can. A very short reach, or needing to step, suggests limited stability.
- Head-turn walk: walk a hallway while turning your head side to side. Veering, slowing or dizziness suggests an inner ear or balance problem.
What else should prompt a balance evaluation?
- A fall in the past year
- Feeling unsteady when standing or walking
- Worrying about falling or avoiding activities
- Dizziness or spinning with head movement
The first three are the CDC key screening questions, and a yes to any of them warrants a closer look1.
Where can I get a full balance evaluation in Alpharetta or Cumming?
A 60-minute, one-on-one evaluation at our Alpharetta or Cumming clinic includes BioSway computerized balance testing, infrared goggle screening for BPPV and a falls risk review. We are in-network with Traditional Medicare, BCBS / Anthem and Tricare, and offer a $129 self-pay rate. We serve Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Suwanee and Forsyth County.
Where can I get help in Alpharetta, Cumming and nearby?
Dr. Manan Patel, PT, DPT, TPS and our team of physical therapists see patients from Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Roswell, Cumming, Suwanee, Sugar Hill, Buford, Duluth and Forsyth County at two North Atlanta clinics. Every visit is 60 minutes, one-on-one, and urgent appointments are available within 48 hours. We are in-network with Traditional Medicare, BCBS / Anthem and Tricare, and offer a $129 rate per visit for self-pay and out-of-network plans. Not sure where to start? Take the free symptom self-check, or visit our Alpharetta clinic or Cumming clinic page.
Cumming clinic
Off GA-400 Exit 13 on Peachtree Parkway
Cumming, GA 30041
Alpharetta clinic
Inside Georgia Brain & Spine Physical Therapy
Alpharetta, GA 30022
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References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. STEADI: Stopping Elderly Accidents, Deaths & Injuries.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Older Adult Falls: Facts and Stats. Accessed October 2026.
This answer is general education, not a diagnosis or a substitute for an examination. If you have new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor. Call 911 for sudden severe dizziness with trouble speaking, weakness, numbness, double vision or a severe headache.
