So, what is in-hand manipulation (IHM)?
In-hand manipulation, or IHM, is defined as the “adjustment of an object within the hand for optimal orientation after grasp.”1 IHM can be classified as the skill into shift, rotation, and translation. It plays a major role in fine motor skills and activities of daily living.2
How can we measure IHM?
Dexterity testing is a great way to help objectively measure dexterity dysfunction or track a patient’s progress throughout their respective episode of care. Dexterity testing examines many components including shift, rotation, and translation. However, when it comes to dexterity testing, most tests available only capture very few of these components. Thankfully there is a test that can examine multiple components at once to help give the clinician a better clinical snapshot of their patients.
And that test is the… Corbett Targeted Coin Test (CTCT)!
What is the Corbett Targeted Coin Test?
The Corbett Targeted Coin Test Box assess palm to fingertip In-Hand Manipulation (IHM). The test requires translating coins from palm to fingertips before coin insertion in vertically as well as randomly positioned slots. This skill requires a more complex visual-motor, differential tendon glide and proprioceptive coordination than most pegboards tests. Clinicians can observe recovery of shift, rotation, and translation of IHM of their patients. With qualitative and quantitative reporting, clinicians can assess Fine Motor Manipulation (FMM) and Dart Thrower’s Motion (DTM). This consistent and convenient test box is easy to clean. It relates to meaningful manipulatives such as coins, buttons, earrings, bingo chips, snack foods.
The Corbett Targeted Coin Test is an In-Hand Manipulation test requiring translating coins from palm to fingertips before coin insertion in vertically, as well as obliquely or horizontally, positioned slots. This test requires more complex visual-motor, differential tendon glide and proprioceptive coordination than most pegboards tests.
The CTCT is an excellent option to evaluate IHM.
To learn more about the Corbett Targeted Coin Test, click here.
Article Written By Eric Trauber, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, FAAOMPT
References:
- Exner, C. (1990b). The Zone of Proximal Development in In-Hand Manipulation Skills of Non-Dysfunctional 3- and 4- year-old Children. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 44: 884-891.
- Visser M, Nel Mariette, Plssis CD, Jacobs, S, Joubert A, Muller M, Smith, B, Heerden TV, and Soest R. In-hand manipulation (IHM) in children 6 and 7 years of age: a follow-up study. South African Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2016, 46(2): 52-58.