A Laser Stimulator for the Study of Cutaneous Thermal and Pain Sensations

Abstract

A laser thermal stimulator system is described which enables the psychophysical and neurophysiological study of cutaneous thermal and pain sensations by means of a non-contact, precise stimulator. A carbon dioxide laser is used as the heat source with closed loop control of skin temperature via a sophisticated radiometer. Temperature steps of 0.1°C to 25°C have been achieved with rise rates of greater than 30°C/second. The temperature can be maintained to better than ±0.1°C over pulse durations of 0.3 seconds to 20 seconds.