The present invention relates to a hand-held instrument used in the assessment of cutaneous tactile sensation. The device consists of a shape memory alloy wire with selected bending force rating and an integral force indicator mechanism. The force indicator is comprised of a wire attachment means, spring-mounted battery and a light source. A hand-held instrument used in the assessment of cutaneous tactile sensation, specifically the ability to discriminate between sharp and dull stimuli, is disclosed. The device consists of two handle-mounted monofilaments with calibrated bending force ratings one terminating in a sharp tip, the other in a dull tip. Users apply each monofilament separately to the skin thereby transmitting either a sharp or dull stimuli at a specific force. The accuracy of feedback to these stimuli will alert users to the presence or absence of protective sensation. Methods of use and kits are also disclosed.
