Predictive influence of non-dominant hand performance on work-related dominant hand function using the Jebsen-Taylor hand function test

Abstract

Background

Hand dominance significantly influences motor skills, with the dominant hand excelling due to better neurological control. Limited knowledge of the non-dominant hand's role highlights the need for on its functional contributions.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate how effectively non-dominant hand performance can predict dominant hand performance in healthy individuals using the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT), offering valuable implications for vocational assessment, rehabilitation planning, and return-to-work (RTW) decision-making.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 307 healthy adults aged 18–65. Hand performance was evaluated using six JTHFT subtests, excluding sentence writing. Task completion times were recorded in seconds. Paired sample t-tests compared dominant and non-dominant hand performances, while multiple linear regression analyses assessed the predictive value of non-dominant hand performance.

Results

Regression analysis revealed that non-dominant hand performance was a significant predictor of dominant hand performance across all subtests (p < 0.001). Strong predictive relationships were identified in gross motor tasks, such as lifting large light objects (adjusted R² = 0.642) and heavy objects (adjusted R² = 0.674). Adjusted R² ranged from 0.268 (feeding) to 0.681 (lifting heavy objects). Non-dominant hand performance significantly predicted dominant hand performance across all subtests (β = 0.51–0.82; p < 0.001). Age, sex, and handedness showed task-specific effects, but non-dominant hand performance remained the strongest predictor.

Conclusions

The study highlights that non-dominant hand performance significantly predicts dominant hand performance across JTHFT tasks, particularly in gross motor activities requiring strength and coordination. These findings underscore the importance of evaluating non-dominant hand function in occupational assessments and return-to-work programs.