Identifying patients with diabetes mellitus who are at risk for lower-extremity complications: use of Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments.

Research indicates that the SW monofilament is an inexpensive, reliable, valid, and easy-to-use clinical indicator for identifying patients who are at risk for developing foot ulcers and subsequent amputations. Those patients unable to sense the 5.07 SW monofilament on any part of their foot should be provided preventive care, including patient education and prescription of appropriate therapeutic footwear.