Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTHFT)
Designed for clinical accuracy, reliability, and ease of administration, the JTHFT provides meaningful, time-based performance data that supports diagnosis, treatment planning, progress tracking, and outcomes reporting.
Why Choose the Jebsen–Taylor Test of Hand Function?
- Clinically Validated & Research-Backed – Extensively studied with strong evidence for reliability and validity
- Function-Focused Assessment – Measures hand performance using simulated activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Bilateral Testing – Evaluates dominant and non-dominant hand function independently
- Objective & Quantifiable – Timed tasks deliver measurable, repeatable results
- Broad Patient Applicability – Suitable for pediatric through geriatric populations
The JTHFT remains a cornerstone tool for functional hand assessment across neurological, orthopedic, and developmental conditions.
What the JTHFT Measures
The Jebsen–Taylor Test evaluates speed and efficiency of hand function across seven standardized subtests that represent common hand-use tasks:
- Writing a Short Sentence – Assesses fine motor control and coordination
- Card Turning – Evaluates finger dexterity and manipulation
- Picking Up Small Common Objects – Measures precision grasp and release
- Simulated Feeding – Assesses coordinated hand-to-mouth movements
- Stacking Checkers – Evaluates fine motor speed and bilateral coordination
- Picking Up Large, Light Objects – Measures gross grasp and transport
- Picking Up Large, Heavy Objects – Assesses strength and functional endurance
Each task is timed, producing objective data that can be compared to normative values or used to track progress over time.
Clinical Applications
The JTHFT is commonly used in the assessment and rehabilitation of individuals with:
- Stroke and traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injury
- Cerebral palsy
- Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders
- Upper extremity orthopedic injuries
- Hand and wrist surgeries
- Developmental coordination disorders
It is equally valuable in acute care, outpatient therapy, hand therapy clinics, rehabilitation hospitals, and research environments.
Key Features & Benefits
Real-World Functional Relevance
Tasks are modeled after everyday activities, ensuring clinically meaningful results that translate directly to functional outcomes.
Standardized Administration
Clear protocols ensure consistency across clinicians, facilities, and research studies.
Time-Efficient Testing
The assessment can typically be completed in 15–20 minutes, making it practical for busy clinical settings.
Progress & Outcomes Tracking
Ideal for documenting baseline function, monitoring rehabilitation progress, and supporting evidence-based treatment decisions.
What’s Included
Depending on configuration, the Jebsen–Taylor Test of Hand Function kit includes:
- Standardized test board
- All required test objects (cards, cans, checkers, small items, weighted objects)
- Writing materials
- Administration guidelines
- Score recording forms
Administration & Scoring
- Administration: Performed with the participant seated at a table, testing one hand at a time
- Scoring Method: Time (in seconds) required to complete each subtest
- Interpretation: Lower completion times indicate higher functional hand performance
Results may be compared against normative data or used for within-patient comparisons over time.
Who Uses the JTHFT?
- Occupational Therapists (OTs)
- Certified Hand Therapists (CHTs)
- Physical Therapists (PTs)
- Rehabilitation Physicians
- Researchers and Academics
- Hospitals, Clinics, and Universities
