Arthritis Hand Function Test (AHFT)
Original Editor - Rucha Gadgil
Top Contributors - Rucha Gadgil and Shaimaa Eldib
Introduction[edit | edit source]
The Arthritis Hand Function Test (AHFT) is an 11-item performance based test designed to measure hand strength and dexterity in persons with arthritis and rhematoid arthritis. It deals with the areas of self-care, work and leisure in such patients.
This test is divided into 4 subscales and tests are performed bilaterally:
- Strength,
- Applied Strength,
- Dexterity, and
- Applied Dexterity
It was developed by Catherine Backman and Hazel Mackie in 1997 and requires purchasing the scoring forms from University of British Columbia, Canada.
Intended Population[edit | edit source]
Useful in both research and clinical applications, the AHFT can be used for pre- and post-operative evaluations, and to measure treatment outcomes pertaining to hand function. It is particularly targeted towards:
- Osteo-arthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Systemic Sclerosis
Procedure[edit | edit source]
Equipment Required[edit | edit source]
The equipment required is:
- Sphygmomanometer,
- pinch meter,
- 9-hole pegboard,
- shoe,
- button board,
- 2 safety pins,
- theraplast,
- plate,
- knife and fork,
- coins and a box,
- wooden tray,
- 12 cans of soup,
- pitcher and a glass,
- 1,000 ml container,
- measuring cup,
- stopwatch.
Training Required[edit | edit source]
AFHT comes with a scoring and instruction Manual that describes the purpose of the test, the procedure for each item, and instructions for assembly of the test kit. It is not difficult to administer and does not require additional training.
Time Required[edit | edit source]
The test can be administered in approx. 20 minutes.
Method[edit | edit source]
The 4 sub-scales are to be administered bilaterally and the scoring noted down on the manual sheet.
