When is a blood pressure measurement on the upper arm not suitable?
In general, both upper arm and wrist devices for blood pressure measurement at home are suitable. When used correctly, both types of devices are also sufficiently accurate. However, it is possible that not every device is equally sensible for everyone.
Some manufacturers offer longer cuffs as purchasable accessories. Cuffs that are too short, which may just barely fit around the arm but are not approved for the arm circumference and therefore fit poorly, can display falsely elevated values. Similarly, cuffs that are too narrow can lead to incorrect measurement results.
For particularly slender upper arms, it is also important to ensure that the cuff is not too wide and can be applied correctly. If this is not possible, the cuff may slip during the measurement, or due to the loose fit, incorrect measurement values may occur.
Cuff-style cuffs are easy to apply but can slip - especially when the upper arm tapers significantly towards the elbow. This often makes the measurement uncomfortable, and the values can be distorted. Similar issues can occur with this upper arm shape with pre-shaped cuffs that do not fit well. Here, the tissue could also be uncomfortably pinched.
Cuff-style cuffs are easy to apply but can slip - especially when the upper arm tapers significantly towards the elbow. This often makes the measurement uncomfortable, and the values can be distorted. Similar issues can occur with this upper arm shape with pre-shaped cuffs that do not fit well. Here, the tissue could also be uncomfortably pinched.
People with a large upper arm circumference - for example, in cases of severe obesity - are now advised to measure at the wrist. The same should be heeded by individuals who have a large upper arm circumference due to muscle mass.
However, even with very slender arms, it is advisable to measure the upper arm circumference before purchasing a blood pressure monitor and to pay attention to a suitable cuff.
Please note that a blood pressure measurement with a cuff always compresses the arm or wrist. This is necessary because the blood flow must be temporarily restricted for the measurement. However, there is a difference between the normal, somewhat uncomfortable pressure, which is necessary, and a pinching sensation because the cuff does not fit.
Just as an upper arm measurement is not always advisable, measuring at the wrist is also not suitable for everyone. You can read why this is the case in our article „When is a blood pressure measurement at the wrist not suitable“.
Sources:
By Sabine Croci.
This article is medically reviewed. Last updated (12/2023).
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