5.07 – 10 G Monofilament Test

According to the American Diabetes Association, all patients with diabetes should be screened for loss of protective sensation in their feet (peripheral neuropathy) when they are diagnosed and at least annually thereafter. With the right monofilament examination tools, such as a simple clinical Semmes-Weinstein test, these screens can be completed quickly and easily.

The Semmes-Weinstein disposable monofilament wire and retractable monofilament are both ideal for detecting if a patient has lost protective sensation. We’re happy to provide you with both options:

1. Reusable & retractable monofilaments in handy plastic cover - (Has 5 replacement filaments included)
Price: $25.95

2. Packages of 20 disposable, one-time use monofilaments
Price $29.95

The 5.07 monofilament exerts 10 g of force when bowed into a C shape against the skin for 1 second. Patients who can’t reliably detect application of the 5.07, 10-gram monofilament to designated sites on the plantar surface of their feet are considered to have lost protective sensation. The Semmes-Weinstein monofilament kit is the best option for reliable, quick testing. Find additional steps and instructions below, and order your reliable and affordable reusable or disposable monofilaments today!

How To Perform Monofilament Test:

• Place the patient in supine or sitting position with shoes and socks removed.
• Tell the patient that you’re testing for loss of protective sensation, which increases the risk of foot ulcers and amputation.
• Touch the 5.07 monofilament wire to the patient’s skin on the arm or hand to demonstrate what the touch feels like.
• Instruct the patient to respond “Yes” each time he or she feels the pressure of the monofilament on the foot during the exam.
• Instruct the patient to close his or her eyes and keep toes pointing straight up during the exam.
• Hold the monofilament perpendicular to the patient’s foot. Press it against the foot, increasing the pressure until the monofilament bends into a C shape. (The patient should sense the monofilament by the time it bows.)
• Hold the monofilament in place for about 1 second.
• Press the monofilament to the skin so it buckles at one of two times as you say “Time one” or “Time two.” Have the patient identify at which time he or she was touched.
Randomize the sequence of applying the filament throughout the examination.

Locations for testing:

On both feet, use the first, third, and fifth metatarsal heads and plantar surface of the distal hallux and third toe (see diagram). Avoid callused areas.
Record response on foot screening form with “+” for Yes and “–” for No.