Could a finger sensor replace the blood pressure cuff?
NCT ID NCT05554315
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested a new technique called speckle plethysmography to measure blood pressure continuously using light sensors on the fingers and toe. Forty healthy adults wore the sensors while doing tasks like slow breathing, math problems, and putting a hand in ice water. The goal was to see if this method could track blood pressure changes without a traditional cuff.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could lead to a simpler, wearable device for tracking blood pressure continuously at home.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage study in healthy people only. The technique may not work well in real-world conditions or in people with health issues.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Participants
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40 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Apr 2023
- Finished
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Aug 2025
- Lead sponsor
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A government research agency
The lead sponsor is the US National Institutes of Health.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
Who is studied
Male or female, aged 18 or greater in good general health as evidenced by medical history
- Ages
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18 to 99 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
* INCLUSION CRITERIA: In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria: * Male or female, aged 18 or greater. * In good general health as evidenced by medical history and physical. EXCLUSION CRITERIA: An individual who meets any of the following criteria will be excluded from participation in this study: * Any active cardiovascular or pulmonary disorders or use of vasoactive medications. * History of aneurysm or stroke. * Pregnant by history. * History of fainting or seizures. * An open cut, sore, or bone fracture on or near the hands or feet. * Known retinopathy, intraocular lens implantation, or glaucoma. * Any other condition that in the opinion of the investigator would place the participant at unacceptable risk.
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Genom att skicka in godkänner du våra Användarvillkor
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States
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