What is the normal distance that can be discriminated for 2 point discrimination?

Two-point discrimination is a test used to assess the sensory perception of touch. It evaluates the ability to perceive two distinct points of stimulation on the skin. The normal threshold for two-point discrimination varies across different body areas but is typically around 6 mm for the fingertips, which represent one of the most sensitive areas. This sensitivity decreases in areas further from the central nervous system, such as the forearm or back.

In clinical practice, results from two-point discrimination tests can indicate the state of sensory nerve function and can help identify conditions like peripheral neuropathy or central nervous system dysfunction. A normal distance of less than 6 mm reflects the high density of sensory receptors in the fingertips, enabling greater tactile acuity. This threshold is also consistent with established normative values in medical literature, reinforcing its validity as a measure of sensory discrimination.

Thus, identifying the normal range of two-point discrimination as less than 6 mm is important for understanding sensory function and diagnosing potential sensory deficits.