Distribution and relation of two arm function tests, Box and Blocks test and Nine Hole Peg test, across disease severity levels and types of multiple sclerosis

•Both fine and gross manual dexterity were altered in most persons with MS;.•Alterations in gross manual dexterity were predominant early in the disease course;.•Bilateral alterations in gross manual dexterity were more prevalent than in fine manual dexterity;.•Progressive types of MS presented more alterations in dexterity than did RR type.