Skinfold calipers: which instrument to use?

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  • Additional Information
    • Source:
      Publisher: Cambridge University Press Country of Publication: England NLM ID: 101590587 Publication Model: eCollection Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 2048-6790 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 20486790 NLM ISO Abbreviation: J Nutr Sci Subsets: MEDLINE
    • Publication Information:
      Original Publication: Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2012-
    • Subject Terms:
      Skinfold Thickness*; Anthropometry ; Seasons
    • Abstract:
      The considerable amount of original and generic types of skinfold calipers available is a source of systematic measurement error. This study is a brief report that critically examines the original and illustrated structural configuration of the three main types of skinfold calipers. For more than half a century, the Harpenden®, Lange® and Slim Guide® skinfolds calipers have been widely used in clinical and research settings. It is well established that the physical, mechanical and functional specificity of each type of skinfold caliper makes its interchangeable use impossible. Our report suggests that commercially available technical specifications are insufficient to judiciously choose a skinfold caliper. The area of the jaws, the coefficient of spring and the static and dynamic downward pressure of each type of skinfold caliper must be determined in the metrological laboratory and added to the technical user manual. Choosing a type of skinfold caliper for regular use, without conflict of commercial interest, requires a critical understanding of the physical, mechanical and functional characteristics that configure it. Therefore, a new downward static calibration test and the first eligibility flowchart for a skinfold caliper have been proposed. Finally, the information gathered in this report may be useful for manufacturers of anthropometric instruments and health professionals who use the skinfold technique as a tool for diagnosis and nutritional control.
      (© The Author(s) 2023.)
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    • Contributed Indexing:
      Keywords: Anthropometry; Nutritional assessment; Skinfold caliper; Skinfold thickness
    • Publication Date:
      Date Created: 20230802 Date Completed: 20230803 Latest Revision: 20230809
    • Publication Date:
      20240628
    • Accession Number:
      PMC10388409
    • Accession Number:
      10.1017/jns.2023.58
    • Accession Number:
      37528836