A simple screening method for testing temperature sensitivity - TIP THERM

Failure to perceive variances in temperature in the extremities is the most decisive early symptom of distal symmetric polyneuropathy, a typical ailment accompanying diabetes mellitus (Ziegler 1988).

TIP THERM® was developed to give the clinician and patient a convenient and easy to use method of testing. TIP THERM® is made of special polymer and metal alloys. The polymer side feels warmer and the metal alloy side cooler due to the thermal conductivity property of the materials.

It is not dependent on external power sources, is practically indestructible, easy to handle and small and light enough to fit in any jacket or overall pocket. Most significant, however, is the fact that TIP THERM® has been validated (Spraul 1995). Owing to its physical characteristics this incredibly simple instrument guarantees reproducible test results in an ambient temperature of up to 23 degrees Celsius.