Distribution of Skin Thermal Sensitivity

Abstract

The chapter explores measurement techniques to investigate thermal sensitivity of the skin across numerous locations over the body. Different definitions of thermal sensitivity are provided which will inform the method of stimulation. Techniques of stimulating the skin are proposed (e.g., thermal peltier probe, water-perfused suit, or patches), and temperature, surface area, and duration are discussed. Sensitivity can be assessed immediately (transient) or after a given period of time (steady state), and data can be presented in a variety of forms. The chapter proposed presenting the data as body maps to add clarity for the reader and examples are provided