Sympathetic Tone Measurement via Nociception Threshold Comparison

The patent replaces complex laboratory analytical systems with a simple mechanical pressure application system. A pressure base with contact face applies controlled pressure to specific body points, and a sensor measures the pressure threshold at which the subject perceives the stimulus. This mechanical substitution eliminates the need for complex biochemical analysis while providing rapid measurement of sympathetic tone through nociception threshold comparison between sympathetic and non-sympathetic points.

The patent extracts only the essential measurement function from complex laboratory procedures. Instead of performing complete biochemical analysis of cortisol and catecholamines, the invention extracts the core information needed (sympathetic tone level) by measuring pressure thresholds at specific body points. This extraction simplifies the measurement process while retaining the ability to determine sympathetic activation state.

The patent replaces time-consuming laboratory analysis with immediate mechanical measurement. The pressure base applies force and the sensor records the threshold in real-time, providing instant results without sending samples to laboratories. This mechanical substitution enables rapid assessment of sympathetic tone while maintaining measurement capability through objective pressure threshold recording.

The measurement system is self-contained and performs the complete measurement process without external laboratory infrastructure. The pressure base, sensor, and evaluation unit work together as an integrated system that can be deployed anywhere, eliminating dependency on laboratory facilities and enabling immediate measurement results.

The patent introduces nociception threshold measurement as an intermediary indicator of sympathetic tone. Instead of directly measuring temperature or sweat secretion (which are influenced by environment), the invention uses the subject's pain perception threshold as an intermediary that reflects sympathetic activation state. This intermediary measurement is less susceptible to environmental confounds while remaining easy to obtain through simple pressure application.

The patent applies pressure to specific localized body points with different sympathetic innervation characteristics. By targeting specific points (such as sympathetic points versus non-sympathetic control points), the measurement captures local nociception threshold differences that reflect sympathetic tone. This localized approach provides reliable measurement that is not confounded by general environmental conditions affecting the entire body.

The patent employs a simple, inexpensive pressure base with contact face that can be easily manufactured and potentially disposed of or reused. The sensor unit is a standard force-sensitive resistor or similar component that is inexpensive and widely available. This approach replaces expensive laboratory equipment and biochemical reagents with cheap, easily manufactured components, making the system accessible and simple to produce.

The patent substitutes complex biochemical analysis equipment with simple mechanical pressure application devices. The pressure base, contact face, and sensor form a straightforward mechanical system that is easy to manufacture using conventional fabrication techniques, unlike sophisticated laboratory analyzers requiring specialized engineering and maintenance.