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Related Experiment Videos

Threshold detection and Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments

J A Bell-Krotoski1, E E Fess, J H Figarola

  • 1Rehabilitation Research Department, Gillis W. Long Hansen's Disease Center, Carville, Louisiana 70721-9607, USA.

Journal of Hand Therapy : Official Journal of the American Society of Hand Therapists
|April 1, 1995
PubMed
Summary

Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments are reliable for sensory testing. This study found that variations in filament force within the specified range did not significantly impact accuracy for detecting normal touch thresholds.

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Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Clinical Diagnostics

Background:

  • Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments offer repeatable sensory testing, crucial for objective clinical assessments.
  • Established normal sensory detection thresholds and filament forces by Weinstein, identifying a 0.005-in filament as a key predictor.
  • Manufacturer tolerances in filament diameter can lead to variations in applied force, potentially affecting testing accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the impact of small variations in force on the accuracy of the commonly used 2.83 (0.005-in) Semmes-Weinstein monofilament.
  • To compare the performance of 2.83 filaments with different mean forces (62 mg vs. 95 mg) from distinct manufacturers.

Main Methods:

  • A standard testing protocol was applied to 130 subjects across hands, arms, faces, legs, and feet.

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  • Six examiners utilized Semmes-Weinstein filaments with measured forces, including heavier and lighter variations.
  • Data analysis focused on comparing responses between filament kits and assessing correlations.

    • Main Results:

    • A high correlation in subject responses was observed for the 2.83 filaments within the tested force range.
    • Despite overall high correlation, minor differences in sensory detection were noted between filament kits based on testing site and subject age.
    • The study confirmed the reliability of the 2.83 filament for normal threshold detection across different manufacturers.

    Conclusions:

    • Small variations in the force of 2.83 Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments, within the specified range, do not significantly compromise their accuracy for normal sensory threshold testing.
    • The findings support the continued use of Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments as a dependable tool for objective sensory evaluation in clinical settings.
    • Further investigation into site- and age-specific differences may refine the application of sensory testing protocols.