jebsen taylor hand function test score

Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test: Score & Results

By Joseph AllenJanuary 9, 2026

The Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT) is a widely recognized and valuable tool in assessing the functional ability of the upper extremity, particularly the hand. Developed by Dr. Jebsen and Dr. Taylor in 1965, this test provides a standardized, objective measure of hand function, making it an essential part of clinical evaluations and rehabilitation programs. Let's delve into the intricacies of the JTHFT, its scoring system, and its significance in healthcare settings.

Understanding the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test

The JTHFT consists of seven subtests, each designed to evaluate a specific aspect of hand function. These subtests include:

Writing
Turning Cards
Picking Up Coins
Assembling Small Objects
Screwing and Unscrewing Lids
Assembling Large Blocks
Lifting Small Objects

Each subtest requires the participant to perform a specific task, such as writing a sentence, turning playing cards, or picking up coins, as quickly and accurately as possible. The time taken to complete each subtest is recorded and used to calculate the test score.

Scoring the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test

The JTHFT score is calculated based on the time taken to complete each subtest. The raw scores are then converted to age-adjusted and gender-adjusted percentile ranks using normative data. A higher percentile rank indicates better hand function.

Here's a simplified breakdown of the scoring process:

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Subtest	Raw Score (Time in seconds)	Percentile Rank
Writing	10-60	5th-95th
Turning Cards	10-60	5th-95th
Picking Up Coins	10-60	5th-95th
Assembling Small Objects	10-60	5th-95th
Screwing and Unscrewing Lids	10-60	5th-95th
Assembling Large Blocks	10-60	5th-95th
Lifting Small Objects	10-60	5th-95th

It's crucial to note that the JTHFT is sensitive to age and gender differences. Therefore, it's essential to use the appropriate normative data for accurate scoring.

The Role of the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test in Healthcare

The JTHFT plays a pivotal role in various healthcare settings, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and hand surgery. Its primary uses include:

Assessment: The JTHFT helps healthcare professionals assess the functional status of the hand and upper extremity, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Monitoring Progress: By administering the JTHFT at different stages of treatment or rehabilitation, therapists can track a patient's progress and adjust interventions as needed.
Research: The JTHFT's normative data and reliability make it an invaluable tool in research, enabling comparisons across studies and populations.

In conclusion, the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test is a robust, reliable, and widely accepted tool in assessing hand function. Its practicality, standardization, and normative data make it an invaluable asset to healthcare professionals, researchers, and patients alike.