Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention (LEAP) with Semmes Weinstein Monofilament Wire

Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention (LEAP) is a program designed to lower ulcer and amputations in diabetic patients.

One of the most important screens for diabetic patients is the loss of sensation in their feet (neuropathy). The Lower Extremity Amputation Prevention (LEAP) Foot Screen uses a Semmes Weinstein 5.07 monofilament wire to test for diabetic neuropathy. Monofilaments are the most effective method and least expensive testing for loss of protective sensation (LOPS) in diabetic patients. All physicians should be performing this foot screen on all their diabetic patients at least once per year.

Approved for single patient use, our monofilament test for diabetic neuropathy presents an easy, inexpensive test to predict a patient’s risk for developing LOPS. Screening a patient for LOPS using the Semmes Weinstein neuropathy skin test is simple and non-invasive for adults, children and seniors. Save money for your practice by ordering your diabetic foot neuropathy tests in bulk from Atlas Biomechanics.

Atlas Biomechanics' Semmes Weinstein Monofilaments 5.07 10g Neuropathy Diabetic Testing Kits come as 20 individual filaments. They are FDA approved at 10g of force and made in the USA.

How to Perform a Semmes Weinstein Neuropathy Skin Test

1. Have the patient in a sitting position with shoes and socks off.
2. Explain to the patient that you’re screening/testing for neuropathy (loss of skin nerve feeling).
3. Touch the Semmes-Weinstein nylon monofilament wire to the patient’s arm to show what the touch feels like.
4. Tell the patient to respond “Yes” each time he or she feels the pressure of the 5.07 monofilament wire on the foot during the exam.
5. Tell the patient to shut their eyes during the exam.
6. Hold the monofilament wire 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.)
7. 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.
8. Locations for testing: On both feet, use the first, third, and fifth metatarsal heads and plantar surface of the distal hallux and third toe. Avoid callused areas.
9. Record response on foot screening form with “+” for Yes and “–” for No.

Teri Green
Atlas Biomechanics