You are here: Infothek - Measurement of Blood Pressure

Measurement of Blood Pressure

Blood pressure monitors are available for the upper arm and the wrist. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. The upper (systolic) and lower (diastolic) arterial blood pressure are displayed.

Classic Blood Pressure Measurement

Classic blood pressure monitors consist of a cuff that is placed around the upper arm, a rubber bulb for inflation, and an analog pressure gauge. The rubber bulb and pressure gauge are connected to the cuff via hoses. A stethoscope is also required for measurement. After correctly applying the pressure cuff to the upper arm, it is inflated using the rubber bulb. As the air pressure is released, the blood pressure can be heard through the resulting Korotkow sound (turbulence sound) with the stethoscope. From this point, blood can flow through the vessel again. The turbulence sounds become audible and are noted as the systolic (upper) blood pressure value. The diastolic (lower) value is defined as the point at which the sounds disappear and the blood can flow through the vessel without turbulence - and thus silently. 

There are some more modern blood pressure monitors in the classic design. These have an electronic sensor that replaces the stethoscope. Some of these devices can also measure the pulse rate.

Digital Blood Pressure Monitors

Digital blood pressure monitors perform an automatic measurement of arterial pressure. They automatically inflate at the push of a button and also release the air independently. In doing so, they determine the two blood pressure values and the pulse rate. These devices are now available at very low prices. A distinction is made between devices for measuring at the upper arm and devices for measuring at the wrist. Both methods are considered equivalent. However, there are design-related peculiarities. Wrist devices are easier to use. However, great attention must be paid to the correct hand position with the measurement point at heart level. This is almost automatically given with upper arm devices. However, for measurement, it may be necessary to remove clothing.

Blood Pressure Monitors with Certification Seal

A commercially available blood pressure monitor must comply with the regulations of the Medical Devices Act. However, this law only states that medical devices are safe and sufficiently functional. It does not prescribe measurement accuracy. The German Hypertension League awards a seal for devices it has tested: the certification seal of the German Hypertension League. The testing is carried out by an independent institute that is unknown to the manufacturer. The test is conducted according to a comprehensive testing protocol with at least 96 subjects - more than the Medical Devices Act prescribes. The testing conditions are precisely defined and uniform.

Articles in this category:


By Sabine Croci. This article is medically reviewed. Last updated (12/2023).
Information on the website and within the app cannot replace a consultation with a doctor, but can certainly complement it.

afgis quality logo valid until 2024/05: Clicking the logo opens a new window with information about klier.net GmbH & Co. KG and its internet offering: www.bloodpressuredb.com/ Our offering meets the afgis transparency criteria. The afgis logo stands for high-quality health information on the internet.

Related Articles:
Search for more information about

Translation Disclaimer:
This content has been automatically translated. We strive for accuracy, but errors may occur. Please contact us if you find any inconsistencies or have questions.