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Factors influencing the bio-impedance data in tissue segments along the three arm meridians: a pilot study

  • Lim, Chi Eung Danforn (South Western Sydney Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales) ;
  • Wong, Felix Wu Shun (School of Women's and Children's Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales Australia) ;
  • Smith, Warren (Chinese Medicine Clinical Research Centre, Liverpool Hospital, University of New South Wales Australia)
  • Received : 2011.04.22
  • Accepted : 2011.11.30
  • Published : 2011.11.30

Abstract

Bioelectric impedance measurements have been reported to show significant variation between individuals. Different physiological conditions like thickened skin, obesity, and fluid retention can affect the impedance measurement. Therefore, it is important to learn what other factors can affect the measurements of impedance even in healthy individuals. Such information is a prerequisite for understanding the changes in impedance associated with acupuncture treatment. This study investigated the bio-impedance properties of tissue segments in the arms of a number of healthy subjects, so as to define the factors that might influence the variation of the bio-impedance data in acupuncture meridians studies. 51 healthy subjects were recruited through Liverpool Hospital, Sydney. Demographic data was collected from each subject including the age, sex, BMI, and time since most recent meal. Electrodes were applied to the forearms of each test subject. Measurements were done by a purpose-built Bio-Impedance Research Device (BIRD-I) which allowed the determination of core resistance (Rc) and core reactance (Xc) of each of the three meridian tissue segments on the anterior surface of the forearm. No significant difference was found in the core resistance attributable to age group, gender, BMI or meal intake. However, a statistically significant trend in increasing resistance from the radial to ulnar aspect of the forearm (p < 0.001) was found. No significant difference was found in the core resistance of test tissue segments among the 51 healthy subjects measured in this study. However, the trend of increasing core resistance from the radial to ulnar aspects of the arm deserves further investigation.

Keywords

References

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