WOLF MOTOR FUNCTION TEST (WMFT)
Procedure and scoring
Before starting the evaluation, it is important that the evaluator carefully read the instructions in order to ensure the accuracy of the tool, as they explain each task in detail, including specific considerations of the starting and ending positions, the movement being evaluated, instructions and demonstration of the test for the person being evaluated, and specific scoring criteria for each task.
The assessment consists of 17 tasks, the first six of which involve joint movements such as elbow extension and shoulder flexion. Tasks 7 and 14 measure shoulder flexion strength using weighted wristbands and palmar grip strength with a dynamometer. The remaining tasks involve grasping everyday objects, such as bringing a can to the mouth, turning a key in a lock, or folding a towel.
The tests described are performed with both hands and are scored based on time, with a maximum of 120 seconds, except for tasks 7 and 14, which are scored based on strength (kg). In addition, the timed tasks measure the functional capacity of the affected upper limb, ranging from 0 (no movement initiated with the affected hand) to 5 (normal movement), always using the other limb as a reference. The maximum functional capacity score is 75 points, so a higher score on this scale and a shorter execution time for each task reflect better functionality.
Cross-cultural Adaptation and Translation
The WMFT has been adapted and translated for use with Spanish-speaking adults with acquired brain injury (Casaña et al., 2025). This adaptation involved two parallel processes carried out by researchers from Rey Juan Carlos University (URJC) and researchers from the InTeO group. Both processes followed international guidelines until reaching their pre-final versions. These were analyzed and unified to ensure the clarity and applicability of the instructions, resulting in the final version. Therefore, a version of the WMFT is now available for use in Spain, although its psychometric properties will need to be evaluated.
Importance in Rehabilitation
The WMFT is a tool that allows for the assessment of manual dexterity through everyday tasks. The comprehensive view of the upper limb, combined with the variety of scores obtained, makes it a precise and consistent evaluation, allowing for comparison of progress during the rehabilitation process.
AUTHORSHIP:
This tool was designed by Wolf and colleagues in 1995, and the Spanish version by Casaña and colleagues in 2025.