Baseline Clinical Grade Tuning Fork, 128 Hz, Weighted

The Baseline Clinical Grade Tuning Fork (128 Hz, Weighted) is the professional-grade instrument for evaluating vibratory sensation in clinical, rehabilitation, and diagnostic settings. The 128 Hz frequency is the clinical standard for peripheral sensory nerve assessment — particularly for lower-extremity vibratory sensation testing in patients with diabetic neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, and other neurological conditions. The weighted tines extend the duration of vibration after striking, providing a sustained, consistent stimulus for sensory evaluation. Clinical grade construction offers superior precision, durability, and frequency accuracy compared to student grade instruments, making it the preferred choice for professional clinical use.

Key Features

• 128 Hz frequency — the clinical standard for vibratory sensation and peripheral sensory assessment
• Clinical grade construction — superior precision and frequency accuracy for professional use
• Weighted tines extend vibration duration for a sustained, consistent sensory stimulus
• Suitable for lower-extremity vibratory sensation testing in neuropathy and neurological assessment
• Suitable for upper-extremity sensory nerve evaluation
• Preferred choice for professional clinical and diagnostic settings

Specifications

• Brand: Baseline
• SKU: 10056D
• UPC: 19213010850
• Frequency: 128 Hz (cycles per second)
• Grade: Clinical
• Weights: Yes (weighted tines)
• Use: Vibratory sensation and peripheral sensory nerve assessment
• Country of Origin: China

Ideal For

Physical therapists and occupational therapists performing peripheral sensory evaluations to assess vibratory sensation in patients with diabetic neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, or neurological conditions will find the clinical grade construction provides the frequency accuracy and durability required for reliable, repeatable clinical assessment. Physicians, neurologists, and nurse practitioners conducting bedside neurological exams that include vibratory sensation testing of the feet and ankles will find the clinical grade instrument the preferred choice for diagnostic accuracy in professional practice. Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and specialty clinics that require professional-grade diagnostic instruments for their clinical staff will find the clinical grade fork a more appropriate investment than student grade alternatives for high-frequency clinical use. Researchers and educators in clinical neuroscience and rehabilitation programs who require precise, reliable instruments for assessment protocols and teaching will benefit from the superior construction and frequency accuracy of the clinical grade model.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between clinical grade and student grade tuning forks?
Clinical grade tuning forks are manufactured to tighter tolerances with higher-quality materials, resulting in superior frequency accuracy, more consistent vibration characteristics, and greater durability under repeated clinical use. Student grade forks are cost-effective instruments appropriate for educational settings and general clinical use where the highest level of precision is not required. For professional diagnostic and clinical assessment applications, clinical grade is the preferred choice.

Why is 128 Hz the standard frequency for vibratory sensation testing?
The 128 Hz frequency produces a vibration that is easily felt through bone and tissue, making it ideal for assessing the integrity of large sensory nerve fibers responsible for vibration detection. It is the most widely used frequency for lower-extremity sensory testing in patients with diabetic neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, and other conditions affecting peripheral nerve function. The 512 Hz fork is preferred for auditory screening applications.

How do I use a tuning fork for vibratory sensation testing?
Strike the weighted tines against a firm but yielding surface — such as the heel of your hand or a rubber pad — to set the fork vibrating. Place the base of the vibrating fork on a bony prominence (such as the medial malleolus, first metatarsal head, or great toe) and ask the patient to indicate when they feel the vibration and when it stops. Compare findings bilaterally and to proximal sites. Consult a clinical neurological assessment reference for full test interpretation guidance.

How do I care for a clinical grade tuning fork?
Store the tuning fork in a protective case or pouch to prevent damage to the tines. Avoid dropping the fork or striking it against hard surfaces, as this can alter the vibration frequency or damage the tines. Clean with a mild disinfectant wipe between patients. Do not autoclave or expose to high heat, as this can affect the metal’s temper and alter the fork’s frequency accuracy.