Hand grip function assessed by the box and block test is affected by object surfaces.
METHODS
N/A.


BACKGROUND
One of the hand function assessment tools is the Box and Block Test (BBT).


OBJECTIVE
To examine if the BBT score is affected by grip surfaces.


METHODS
Thirteen adults performed the BBT with wooden, rubber-covered, and paper-covered blocks. The BBT scores and time for seven movements (finger closing, contact to lift-off, transport before barrier, transport after barrier, release, return, and reach) were compared across the three block types.


RESULTS
The mean BBT score was 8% higher for the rubber blocks than the paper and wooden blocks (p<0.01) due to the reduced time for contact to lift-off (when the finger touches a block until the block is lifted).


CONCLUSIONS
Hand function assessments should be controlled for object surfaces. Therapists may vary grip difficulties by changing object surfaces. Redesigning daily objects with high-friction surfaces may increase grip function.


METHODS
N/A.
Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 3200 North Cramer Street, Milwaukee, WI 53211, USA. seon@uwm.edu
Na Jin
NJ
Seo
Leah R
LR
Enders
D000328:Adult; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D005260:Female; D018737:Hand Strength / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010209:Paper; D012408:Rubber; D013499:Surface Properties; D055815:Young Adult
D012408:Rubber