Forearm Tension and Change of Finger Temperature

Abstract

10 adult subjects were provided EMG feedback from the forearm and relaxed until integrated EMG output fell below 5 µV. The temperature of the index finger of the same limb was simultaneously monitored, and when it had stabilized, a baseline measurement was taken. Subjects then performed a tonic contraction of the forearm, maintaining a specified EMG output for three minutes. No movements of the hand, fingers, or arm were permitted during this period. Finger temperatures were again measured at the end of the contraction period and had decreased significantly in proportion to sustained EMG output. It is concluded that covert changes in tonic forearm EMG activity have a substantial effect on finger temperature.