Foot sole skin temperature affects plantar foot sensitivity

ObjectiveFactors like age and polyneuropathic diseases are known to influence foot sensitivity and are considered when applying quantitative sensory testing. However, the effects of temperature on foot sensitivity are controversial. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different foot sole temperature on vibration sensitivity of healthy subjects.MethodsForty healthy subjects (20 male, 20 female) were analyzed. Vibration thresholds were measured at three anatomical locations (Heel, 1st Metatarsal Head and Hallux) of both feet at 200 Hz. Thresholds were measured at initial baseline temperature and after cooling/warming of the foot skin 5–6 °C. Comparisons between baseline and cooled/warmed thresholds as well as between genders were performed.ResultsThere were no significant differences in vibration thresholds when comparing men and women. Thresholds were significantly higher after skin cooling for at all anatomical locations. After skin warming, thresholds were significantly lower at all measured anatomical locations.ConclusionsSmall temperature changes significantly influence vibration sensitivity of healthy subjects and should be controlled during collection of foot sensitivity data.SignificanceThe control of temperature is an important factor to enhance the quality of data acquired with quantitative sensory testing.