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Diabetic Neuropathy Testing

Aka: Diabetic Neuropathy Testing, Peripheral Neuropathy Testing, Semmes-Weinstein 10-g, 5.07-Gauge Monofilament

See Also
1. Diabetes Mellitus
2. Peripheral Neuropathy
Indications
1. Diabetes Mellitus Peripheral Neuropathy Testing
Pathophysiology
1. 10-g Monofilament correlates with protective sensation
Technique
1. Monofilament applied to at least 4 sites on each foot
2. Apply just enough pressure to bend monofilament
Interpretation: Unable to feel 4 sites on foot
1. Suggests significant Peripheral Neuropathy
2. Risk of Foot Ulcer or Charcot Joint
Alternative testing: Tuning fork test
1. Tuning fork (128 hz) applied to malleolus
2. Lack of sensation suggests Peripheral Neuropathy
3. Less sensitive than 10-g monofilament

Family Practice Notebook

Patients should address specific medical concerns with their physicians.

Although access to this page is not restricted, the information found here is intended for use by medical providers.

This page was written by Scott Moses, MD, last revised on 10/21/2007 and last published on 5/14/2013.

This is one of 5887 pages in the Family Practice Notebook