ABSTRACT

Objective : The purpose of this study is to introduce the 10-second test, which can be done in a short time without using any special devices, to evaluate the hand dexterity of stroke patients and to understand its possibility for use in-clinic.Methods : For upper extremity tests, a 10-second test, a Box and Block Test (BBT), and Fugl-Meyer Motor Function Assessment (FMA) have been conducted on 17 hemiplegic patients between 37 to 75 years of age. The 10-second test consists of a Finger Individual Movement Test (FIMT), Hand Pronation and Supination Test (HPST), and Finger Tapping Test (FTT). The collected data have been analyzed using a Windows SPSS 12.0 program.Results : There are significant correlations between the detailed categories of the 10-second test, BBT, and FMA (.525 to .865). The functions of right hemiplegic patients are better compared than those with left hemiplegia in HPST and FTT when comparing the general characteristics of each examination.Conclusion : As a result of this study, the 10-second test can assess the hand dexterity of stroke patients simply and without any special instrument in-clinic; this might be helpful to understand the recovery of patients and to suggest objective data.