The effect of external pressure on skin temperature distribution by thermography.

1) Serial thermograms were taken after the application of various intensities and durations of localized pressure on the medial surface of the human forearm. 2) Thermal response of the body surface to localized pressure was quantified. 3) It was found that usually a time period of between 1 to 3 minutes elapsed before the body surface attained a maximum elevation of temperature from the time the localized pressure is removed. 4) It was found that increased intensity of pressure (5 psi vs. 3 psi) and longer duration (20 minutes vs. 10 minutes) caused larger thermal responses. 5) It is suggested that high resolution medical thermography may eventually become a useful tool in the fitting of prosthetic and orthotic devices and for the prediction of pressure sores formation so prophylactic measures can be started immediately on immobilized patients.