The squares test as a measure of hand function in multiple sclerosis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Clinical Assessment

Background:

• Hand function impairment is a significant challenge in multiple sclerosis (MS).
• The 9-hole peg test (9HPT) is the standard assessment for hand function in MS.
• There is a need for validated, easily administered hand function tests in MS research and clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reproducibility, discriminatory power, and concurrent validity of the Squares Test (ST) for assessing hand function in individuals with MS.
• To compare the ST's performance against the established 9HPT.

Main Methods:

• The ST's reproducibility was assessed in 49 healthy controls.
• Discriminatory power and concurrent validity were evaluated in 38 MS patients and 18 age/gender-matched controls.
• Correlation analysis was performed between the ST and the 9HPT across a range of Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores.

Main Results:

• The ST demonstrated excellent reproducibility in healthy controls.
• The ST showed a high and statistically significant correlation with the 9HPT in MS patients.
• The ST exhibited high discriminatory power, comparable to the 9HPT, across various EDSS levels.

Conclusions:

• The Squares Test is a reliable, valid, and easily administered paper-and-pencil assessment for hand function in MS.
• The ST is a potential candidate for inclusion in composite measures of MS-related functional deficits for clinical trials and practice.