Investigation of Validity and Reliability of the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Many assessment tools have been developed and used to evaluate upper extremity functions in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. While each test has its strengths and weaknesses, the most significant limitation of these tests is that only a limited number assess both hands simultaneously. On the other hand, most daily life activities require the coordinated use of both hands. In MS patients, bilateral impairments in hand functions can also be observed. Therefore, there is a need for bilateral assessment tools. Unlike many other assessment tools, the Minnesota Manual Dexterity Test (MMDT) allows for simultaneous evaluation of both hands. In addition to manual dexterity, it also assesses hand-eye coordination and gross motor skills. The MMDT consists of five subtests: placing, turning, displacing, single-hand turning and placing, and two-hand turning and placing. The validity of the MMDT has also been examined in MS patients. Our study aims to evaluate the reliability and validity of the MMDT in MS patients. The cutoff times that best distinguish individuals with MS from healthy individuals will also be examined. The study aims to systematically and thoroughly evaluate the MMDT, establish it as a valid and reliable method for MS patients, and provide a new perspective on assessing hand functions.

At baseline, the MMDT, EDSS, 9-hole peg test (9-HPT), ABILHAND survey, and Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT) will be applied to the MS group. The MMDT will be repeated seven days after the first application in MS. Healthy controls are going to perform only the MMDT.