During the One Leg Stand test, what arm position indicates a clue of impairment?

During the One Leg Stand test, the observation of arm positions is critical in assessing a subject’s level of impairment. When a person raises their arms 6 or more inches from their sides while attempting to balance on one leg, it serves as a clue of impairment because it suggests a lack of balance and coordination.

Impaired individuals often struggle to maintain their balance during this test, which can lead to them instinctively raising their arms to help maintain stability. This behavior reflects difficulty in executing a simple task that requires concentration and physical control, further indicating impairment due to alcohol or drugs.

In contrast, keeping arms at the sides or crossed over the chest would typically suggest a better ability to maintain balance and coordination, as these positions are more indicative of someone who is not impaired. Therefore, the key takeaway here is that the arm position during the test provides valuable insight into the subject's ability to perform the task, with raised arms serving as a significant marker of impairment.