Neurological Screening Tool – NeuroTip

A Pocket -sized , portable , disposable device used for screening and detecting diabetic and peripheral neuropathy

Uses

It is a pocket-sized device used primarily to screen for Peripheral Neuropathy (nerve damage), particularly in patients with diabetes. It replaces the traditional 128Hz tuning fork by providing a consistent source of vibration to test the patient's vibration perception threshold

Distinction: The black device in your image is labeled "Neuro Tip." Be careful not to confuse this with a "Neurotip Pin," which is a sharp needle used to test pain sensation. The device in the image with the "Press Here" button is strictly for vibration testing.

Step-by-Step Clinical Procedure

Step 1: Familiarization (The Reference Test)
Before testing the feet, apply the device to a bony part of the patient's body where sensation is likely intact (e.g., the wrist, elbow, or clavicle).

Action: Press the button to activate the vibration and hold the spherical tip against the skin.

Verify: Ask the patient, "Can you feel this buzzing/vibration?" This ensures they understand the sensation they are looking for.

Step 2: Blinding

Ask the patient to close their eyes or look away so they cannot see when you are applying the device. This prevents them from guessing based on visual cues.

Step 3: Testing the Foot

Site: The standard testing site is the apex (pulp) of the big toe (hallux). If there is an ulcer or thick callous, apply it to the base of the first metatarsal (the ball of the foot) or the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone).

Application: Gently touch the spherical tip to the skin. Do not press hard; just make firm contact.

Step 4: The "Forced Choice" Method

To ensure accuracy, use a "two-interval" method:

Touch 1: Touch the skin without pressing the button (No Vibration).

Touch 2: Touch the skin while pressing the button (Vibration).

Ask: "Which touch was vibrating? Number 1 or Number 2?"

Alternatively, simply touch the spot and randomly choose to vibrate or not vibrate, asking the patient to say "Yes" only when they feel the buzz.

Step 5: Duration & Repetition

Hold the stimulus for approximately 1–2 seconds.

Repeat the test twice on each big toe to confirm consistency.

Interpretation of Results

Normal (Negative): The patient consistently detects the vibration. Their protective sensation is likely intact.

Abnormal (Positive): The patient fails to feel the vibration. This indicates a Loss of Protective Sensation (LOPS) and suggests the presence of peripheral neuropathy. These patients are at high risk for diabetic foot ulcers.

Important Clinical Notes

Battery: Most of these fob-style devices (like the VibraTip) are disposable and sealed. The battery cannot be replaced. If the vibration feels weak or stops, the entire unit usually needs to be replaced.

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