Adult Norms for the Box and Block Test of Manual Dexterity

TLDR

The Box and Block Test, used by occupational therapists to assess manual dexterity, has lacked adult normative data, leading to subjective interpretation of results. This study aimed to establish normative data for adult performance on the Box and Block Test. The study evaluated 628 healthy adults (310 men, 318 women) aged 20–94 from the Milwaukee area, stratifying them into 12 five‑year age groups. Normative values—including means, standard deviations, standard errors, and low/high scores—for each five‑year age group were provided, allowing clinicians to objectively compare patient scores to population parameters.

Abstract

Abstract The Box and Block Test, a test of manual dexterity, has been used by occupational therapists and others to evaluate physically handicapped individuals. Because the test lacked normative data for adults, the results of the test have been interpreted subjectively. The purpose of this study was to develop normative data for adults. Test subjects were 628 Normal adults (310 males and 318 females) from the seven-county Milwaukee area. Data on males and females 20 to 94 years old were divided into 12 age groups. Means, standard deviations, standard error, and low and high scores are reported for each five-year age group. These data will enable clinicians to objectively compare a patient’s score to a normal population parameter.