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Touch localization
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Test to be performed - Touch localization (cotton ball)
Touch localization tests the individual’s ability to perceive where on the skin he/she was touched with a light stimulus.

Expected findings - The individual will be able to precisely indicate where he/she was touched.

Equipment - Cotton ball or similar stimulus

Testing procedure - method one

  1. Explain the procedure to the patient with his/her eyes open. For example, “I am going to lightly touch various parts of your arms (or other body part) with this ball of cotton, and when you feel the cotton touching you, I want you to tell me where you were touched.” 
  2. Demonstrate the procedure with the patient’s eyes open until the patient understands the procedure to be performed.
  3. The patient closes his/her eyes, or vision is otherwise occluded.
  4. Lightly touch the applicable body regions with the piece of cotton using consistent and minimal contact pressure.
  5. Ask the patient to precisely indicate where he/she was touched.
  6. Vary the time between stimuli to avoid developing a rhythmic pattern. 
  7. Repeat throughout suspected areas.
  8. Document findings.
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Section: Touch localization
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