Esthesiometer

The monofilament according to Semmes - Weinstein is a neurological examination instrument for the physician, occupational therapists or podiatrists. It consists of a single, relatively rigid plastic filament ( monofilament ), the buckling at a fixed power, conventionally at 0.1 N.

It is used in particular to study the sensitivity in the feet and legs. By pressing the monofilament to the point at which it buckles, a defined pressure is built up, which should be sensed from a healthy patient. If there is no perception of stress, there is a suspicion of neuropathy.

Due to the very simple investigation and inexpensive instrument, it is a good screening method for diabetic polyneuropathy in the context of disease management program in general medical practice.

Swell

• Gerd Herold, Internal Medicine 2006, page 618
• Clara Scheepers, occupational therapy from Treat to action in 2000, page 138

• The diagnostic method in diabetology
• The diagnostic method in neurology
• Clinical examination procedures
• Diagnostic device