Wartenberg wheel

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For other uses of "Wartenberg", see Wartenberg.

A Wartenberg wheel, also called a Wartenberg pinwheel or Wartenberg neurowheel, is a medical device for neurological use. It was originally designed by Dr Robert Wartenberg to test nerve reactions as it glided across the skin. A Wartenberg wheel is generally made of stainless steel with a handle of approximately seven inches in length. The wheel, which has evenly spaced radiating sharp pins, rotates around as it is rolled across the flesh. A disposable plastic version is available.

[edit] Non-medical use

Wartenberg wheels are a popular BDSM toy, proven by its constant presence on the bestsellers list of BDSM retailers.^{[citation needed]} In practice, it is often rolled over a person's skin, generating a unique sensation. The pins are pointy enough to be felt, but are not sharp enough to puncture the skin, unless excessive pressure is used.

[edit] Literature

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, ISBN 0-9645960-0-8