I recently started testing various alternative sites for my Libre sensor.
Today, I share with you my experience with a thigh Libre sensor placement.
I will test other spots in the coming weeks and share my experience with you again on my website.
For each sensor location, I will focus on 4 key categories: Placement, accuracy, durability, and comfort.
Sensor Placement – Thigh
I place the sensor at the top of the outer thigh about 3-4 inches down from where my leg connects to my torso. (It is exactly the same place where my pocket is).
This way I can scan the sensor with my phone which is in fact in my pocket which is very discrete.
You can also put the sensor a bit lower on the outer side, front side, and even inner side of the thigh where it is even more hidden if you want to avoid questions from strangers.
Another option is the back side right under your butt.
Do not put the sensor directly in your muscle. This could be a bit painful.
You should also avoid placing your sensor close to where you inject insulin. This could have negative impact on accuracy of readings.
I found the application and removal super easy. Thigh is easily reachable and the placement is much less complicated than putting the sensor in your back arm.
Sensor Accuracy – Thigh
There has been an accuracy study* made on 23 patients which showed that accuracy of the sensor readings from upper thigh is comparable with the readings from the upper arm.
The aggregated precision absolute relative difference based on the study was:
- Upper arm: 10.9% ±11.9%;
- Upper thigh: 10.9% ±11.9%;
- Abdomen: 20.9 ± 22.8%;
The lower the number is the more accurate the readings are. Anything below 15% is generally acceptable. These are good results for the thigh.
Sensor Durability – Thigh
I am happy to report that I did not knock out the sensor from my leg yet. For me, the thigh is more secure than the arm as it doesn’t come to contact with doorframes and backpacks.
Be careful to not knock off your sensor by a dining table. Pay attention when you’re taking of your pants. This spot might also not be ideal if you wear skinny jeans.
You should always consider covering the sensor with a patch to protect it.
Sensor Comfort – Thigh
The sensor in my leg does not bother me at all. I actually like it better than the arm.
It is very easy and comfortable to scan (no more self-hugging) and you can scan the sensor with your phone in your pocket.
You can easily hide the sensor under your pants (especially on the inner side of leg).
My skin on my thing is less sensitive than the skin on the arm. The sensor on a thigh might less likely to cause any rush or scars on your skin.
Conclusion
Personally, I must say I am very happy with the thigh placement. It provides a very comfortable alternative to upper arm.
But you have to decide for yourself based on your lifestyle and your preference.
Have you ever used thigh and how did you like it? Share your experience with the community in the comments below!
Please keep in mind that no other location than back of your arm is recommended by Abbott and if you put your sensor in other spots it is at your own risk! Abbott will not cover a sensor replacement for any faulty sensors if you tell them that you used alternative locations.
Here is a video from my YouTube channel where I discuss the thigh placement in detail. Enjoy watching!
Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and everything here is my opinion in my own words. On this page, I am sharing my diabetic journey with you and do not provide medical advice. Certain links on this page are discount links and/or affiliate links. When you use affiliate links for your purchase I will receive a small provision from the seller.
*Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29381253
Photo credit: Raphael Lovaski on Unsplash