Baseline Student Grade Tuning Fork, 128 Hz, Weighted

The Baseline Student Grade Tuning Fork (128 Hz, Weighted) is the industry standard tool for evaluating vibratory sensation in clinical, educational, and rehabilitation settings. The 128 Hz frequency is the most widely used 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. This model is student grade, offering durable and cost-effective construction for educational and clinical use.

Key Features

• 128 Hz frequency — the clinical standard for vibratory sensation and peripheral sensory assessment
• Weighted tines extend vibration duration for a sustained, consistent sensory stimulus
• Student grade construction — durable and cost-effective for educational and clinical use
• Suitable for lower-extremity vibratory sensation testing in neuropathy and neurological assessment
• Suitable for upper-extremity sensory nerve evaluation
• Compact and easy to handle for one-handed clinical use

Specifications

• Brand: Baseline
• SKU: 10057A
• UPC: 19213010881
• Frequency: 128 Hz (cycles per second)
• Grade: Student
• 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 128 Hz weighted fork the appropriate clinical choice for lower-extremity and upper-extremity sensory screening. Physicians and nurse practitioners conducting bedside neurological exams that include vibratory sensation testing of the feet and ankles will find this fork the standard instrument for that assessment. Nursing, medical, and allied health students who need a reliable, affordable tuning fork for clinical skills training will find the student grade construction appropriate for learning and practicing sensory assessment techniques. Clinics and educational programs stocking tuning forks for student or staff use will find the weighted 128 Hz fork a cost-effective option for high-volume or shared use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the 128 Hz and 512 Hz tuning fork?
The 128 Hz fork is the standard for vibratory sensation testing — particularly for lower-extremity assessment in patients with neuropathy or neurological conditions. Its lower frequency produces a vibration that is more easily felt through bone and tissue, making it appropriate for sensory nerve evaluation. The 512 Hz fork is the standard for auditory screening (Rinne and Weber tests) and upper-extremity sensory assessment. Both are commonly used in clinical practice, but for different primary applications.

What do the weights on the tines do?
Weights attached to the tines lower the effective vibration frequency slightly and significantly extend the duration of vibration after striking. This gives the clinician more time to apply the fork to the patient and complete the assessment before the vibration fades. The weighted design is preferred for sensory testing where a sustained, consistent stimulus is needed to accurately evaluate the patient’s ability to detect vibration.

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 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.