A Wartenberg wheel, also called a Wartenberg pinwheel or Wartenberg neurowheel, is a medical device for neurological use. Robert Wartenberg (1887â€"1956) designed the wheel to test nerve reactions (sensitivity) as it rolled systematically across the skin. A Wartenberg wheel is generally made of stainless steel with a handle of approximately 7 inches (18 cm) in length. The wheel, which has evenly spaced radiating sharp pins, rotates as it is rolled across the flesh. A disposable plastic version is available. Because of hygienic concerns, these devices are rarely used any more.
The Wartenberg wheel is also used as a BDSM or sensation sex toy, sometimes while connected to a violet wand electrical device.
Clothing pattern-making can use a version of the Wartenberg wheel, called a pounce wheel, to transfer markings from fabric to paper. Pounce wheels resemble standard Wartenberg wheels in shape but have wooden handles.
See also
- Tracing wheel
References
Further reading
- Phillip Miller, Molly Devon, William A. Granzig: Screw the Roses, Send Me the Thorns: The Romance and Sexual Sorcery of Sadomasochism. Mystic Rose Books 1995, ISBNÂ 0-9645960-0-8
