A method for monitoring finger and palm pressure during perception threshold testing of compression neuropathies

Abstract

Small changes in finger and palm pressure were detected and recorded with force sensing resistor (FSR) circuitry. This was accomplished once an optimum value of sensitivity adjustment was determined. It was found that a value of approximately 100 k Omega for the sensitivity resistor allowed minimal force (less than 100 g) to cause appreciable change in the output of the sensor's amplifier circuitry. Preliminary results with FSRs indicate that they are an effective means of monitoring finger and palm pressure during perception threshold testing. Initial modeling studies of the amplifier with the FSR indicate that a linear relationship exists between sensor resistance and output voltage for a large range of pressures.<>