two point discrimination test

Introduction

Using 1 or 2 simultaneous pinpricks, find the distance at which the patient can distinguish 1 versus two pinpricks.

The normal distance varies in different parts of the body.

1 mm on the tongue

2-8 mm on the fingertip

40 mm on the chest & forearm

75 mm on the upper thigh & upper arm

More general terms

• physical examination technique