A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that blood pressure readings may not be accurate unless a person’s arm is positioned correctly. The study compared blood pressure readings taken with the arm in three different positions – leaning on a desk, resting on the lap, or hanging by the side of the body. The researchers found that certain arm positions could lead to a significant increase in systolic pressure, the upper number in a blood pressure reading.
The study, which included 133 adults, found that when arms were hanging by the sides, systolic pressure was 6.5 points higher than when supported on a desk. When arms were resting on the lap, systolic pressure was 3.9 points higher. Mispositioning of the arm during blood pressure readings could lead to more diagnoses of hypertension and unnecessary medications being prescribed.
Experts recommend that patients advocate for themselves to ensure accurate blood pressure measurements. Proper arm positioning, avoiding caffeine, exercise, and smoking before a reading, and positioning the cuff at mid-heart level are key components to getting an accurate reading. The study emphasizes the importance of proper arm positioning during blood pressure measurements and highlights the potential consequences of inaccuracies in readings, such as unnecessary medication and misdiagnoses. Patients should be empowered to speak up and ensure that their blood pressure is measured correctly to avoid unnecessary treatment.
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