The Tolerance of Subjective Discomfort Induced by Pressure Applied to the Forearm

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the ability of the forearm to support weight. The criteria used was the psychophysical effect of pressure on the human forearm. The study was conducted in conjunction with research on a forearm supported tool. Three levels of pressure were applied at different times to two distinct locations on the forearm. Effect was measured in terms of the elapsed time until the subject reported experiencing a subjectively defined level of discomfort. Both sexes were used as subjects in the study.

The results indicate that males tolerate pressure induced discomfort longer than females, pressure applied close to the elbow is tolerated longer than pressure applied closer to the wrist, and tolerance decreases rapidly as pressure increases. Based upon the results, recommendations are made for both future tool design and additional research.

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