Cutaneous spatial resolution measurement

The JVP Domes are the most sensitive method of measuring human tactile spatial resolution.

The set includes 8 acrylic probes with bar/groove widths measuring 0.35. 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25, 1.5, 2.0 and 3.0mm. Each probe has a columnar handle and a dome shaped head. The head has an alternating ridge/slot pattern of different width for each probe. The ridged head is pressed against the skin, and the patient/subject must report the alignment of the ridges, longitudinal or transverse. An extensive bibliography is available, including normative data on various body surfaces. Set comes with an illustrated manual with several citations.

Validation studies have demonstrated that:

• The JVP Domes detect deficits in sensitivity that are reported by subjects, but cannot be detected or quantified with Von Frey hairs or two point calipers.
•  Measurements are reproducible and, unlike two point caliper measurements, are not subject to learning effects.
• The neuroanatomical basis for performance in this test is the density of innervation of mechanoreceptive afferents/touch fibers. (Van Boven and Johnson, The Limit of Tactile Spatial Resolution in Humans, Neurology 44:2361-2366, 1994). Many references available.

Method of Operation

The 18020 Kit consists of 8 acrylic probes with equidistant bar and groove widths nominally equal to 0.35, 0.5, 0.75, 1.00, 1.25, 1.5, 2.00, and 3.00 mm respectively. Each probe has a columnar handle and a dome shaped head. The head has an alternating ridge/slot pattern of different width for each probe. The ridged head is pressed against the skin, and the patient/subject must report the alignment of the ridges, longitudinal or transverse. Number of answers correct with each probe is fed into an equation that interpolates and yields a sensitivity number. We also offer additional sizes of 2.5, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0, 6.0, 6.5, 8, 10, and 12 mm, respectively. The 0.35 to 5.0 mm sizes have a diameter of 20 mm. The 5.5 to 12 mm sizes have a diameter of 50 mm.

The purpose of the dome shape is to reach into concave surfaces like the skin below the lower lip. The standard probes are suitable for testing fingers and facial areas for sensitivity. The back or forearm might be too insensitive for even the widest spacing in this set. An extensive bibliography is available, including normative data on various body surfaces. Set comes with an illustrated manual with several citations.