Overview
Test to assess sensory loss in the hand
It determines the threshold of sensation, ranging from light touch to deep pressure
Uses a standardized testing kit consisting of different sized monofilaments
How to administer:
Instruct patient to say "yes" or "touch" when they feel a sensation
Press the monofilament on the patient's hand at a 90 degree angle so it "bows", holding for approximately 1.5 seconds
Start with the smallest monofilaments and work your way up to the larger monofilaments
Start from distal part of hand and work your way proximal
When a patient correctly identifies a sensation, mark the response onto a hand diagram using a colored pencil/pen that corresponds to the color of the handle on the monofilament
Scoring
2.83: Normal
3.61: Diminished light touch
4.31: Diminished protective sensation
4.56: Loss of protective sensation
6.65: Deep pressure sensation only
Recommended Video
References
Sensory Assessment Workshop Handout. (2012). South Hampton Hand Course. http://www.southamptonhandcourse.org.uk/downloads/2012/SensoryAssessmentWorkshophandout.doc.pdf