A further study of the relation between skin temperature and cutaneous sensitivity.

Abstract

Using a 1 mm electrode attached to an induction coil pain "spots" were found on the dorsal surface of the forearm and thresholds obtained. After normal thresholds for pain had been measured, the skin temp. of the area in which the "spot" was located was raised by means of a small radiant heater. During this warming of the skin a series of pain thresholds was taken on the same "spot" with temp. measurements made after each threshold was obtained. The thresholds for pain "spots" dropped to a minimum with increasing temp. but then rose from this value with continued heating. These findings are strikingly similar to those found in studying the effect of temp. on vibratory sensitivity, and seem to fit the chemical explanation postulated in that connection by the present writer.