Fitness bracelets and smart watches with blood pressure measurement. How does this technology work and can you trust it?

So how does the bracelet know about blood pressure?

The blood pressure measurement function is closely related to the bracelet's ability to measure heart pulsation. This is why you can find devices on sale with a separate heart rate monitor, but never only with a blood pressure monitor. Under the bracelet there is a flashing LED, usually glowing green. Its radiation shines through the skin. Bright rays reach the blood vessels. As a result of each heartbeat, the vessels are intensively filled with blood, and therefore become darker. As a result, the detector in the bracelet records this. Against the background of the glow from the LED, the detector can detect pulsation. As a result, the bracelet receives data on heart rate.

Based on these data, as well as additional information, which is also recorded by the sensor, the amplitude of the pulse wave is analyzed. With these numbers, you can use mathematical calculations to determine your blood pressure. These measurements are interrelated, which was proven back in 1867 by the scientist Etienne Jules Marey.

This very ancient method has not been used for a long time, since it requires complex calculations, which are very difficult to do even with a calculator. Since the fitness bracelet is practically a computer, it instantly performs complex calculations and provides a blood pressure reading. Based on the results obtained from analyzing the pulse wave amplitude, it is possible to measure blood pressure faster than with a cuff tonometer.

Can the readings from a fitness bracelet be considered accurate?

Using a sports gadget cannot provide the same accurate measurement results as a full-fledged medical tonometer. The fact is that specialized equipment provides for measuring pressure using a cuff that blocks the pulsation. This method of determination is the most reliable. As for the optical method that the bracelet uses, there is a margin of error. Its level can reach 10 units.

The fact is that even when using high-tech equipment, Marey’s method retains some error, because a lot depends on the condition of the vessels. People of different ages have different plasticity, which is already a cause of error. In addition, a slight deviation may occur against the background of the fact that the technology used in bracelets for analyzing pulsation using an LED is far from ideal. The device works with varying degrees of accuracy on different people's wrists. The causes of errors are different skin density and color, the presence of tattoos or hair under the LED.

Features of pressure bracelets

This tonometer is very compact. There is no need for a specially equipped place for the procedure. The device is easy to use outdoors and in transport. The measuring bracelet is worn on the hand like a watch. You just need to turn it on. Its advantage is that pressure is measured by several sensors. Muscle tension and physical activity do not affect the quality of the measurement. Recently, high-quality inexpensive devices have appeared on the market that are accessible to everyone. Such bracelets are capable of measuring blood pressure in just a few seconds.

In addition to using a gadget to monitor blood pressure, many devices can additionally monitor cholesterol, body temperature, heart rate and other parameters. Some models have the ability to record arrhythmia.

All wrist blood pressure monitors are convenient to use during physical activity and training. You can record the date and time of each measurement and store their results. Such devices can be used in their lives by people of all ages: from children to the elderly.

The bracelets have a soft, durable strap for everyday use, which is made of hypoallergenic material. Numerous manufacturers offer a wide selection of models that differ in functionality and external properties. Some of the bracelets no longer require electricity, smartphones or other auxiliary devices. They work autonomously both from batteries and from a rechargeable battery. Outwardly, such a tonometer from a distance looks like an ordinary watch.

How to achieve maximum accuracy when using the tonometer function

When using a fitness bracelet to measure blood pressure, you must first calibrate the device. Ideally, you need to have an accurate medical cuff-type tonometer, with which you need to measure guaranteed accurate pressure readings in a calm state of the body. After this, you need to enter the following information into the special mobile application for the bracelet:

• accurate pressure readings in a normal resting state of the body;
• age;
• floor;
• weight.

Correct calibration is an important condition for increasing the accuracy of the fitness bracelet when measuring blood pressure. In addition, it is important to adhere to several rules:

1. Fix the bracelet strap closer to the forearm, 2-3 cm from the bend of the hand.
2. When measuring, do not speak or make sudden movements.
3. Fix the strap tightly so that the device fits snugly against the skin.
4. Place your hand at heart level, for example, place it on a tabletop.

Of course, a fitness bracelet cannot be called a full-fledged blood pressure monitor, because it gives a certain measurement error. Under no circumstances should it be used as a substitute for a medical device. At the same time, the sports device has its advantages. First of all, it is very lightweight, so you can carry it with you. It can be used to monitor approximate pressure readings during training. Having even such indicators, you can decide on the advisability of increasing or continuing current loads.

In addition, it is worth noting the huge advantage of bracelets in their ability to record measurement readings in a special application. This allows you to track your body's condition throughout the day. If you install automatic pressure measurement at a certain frequency, then such gadgets will be able to report a critical health condition.

Oxygen measurement in Honor Watch ES

In Honor smartwatches, the oxygen measurement function is located in the main menu and is simply called SPO2. Before starting the measurement, a laconic advice is given not to move and to turn the watch dial towards you, after which 3 seconds are given to prepare.

Honor Watch ES measures oxygen and heart rate simultaneously. If you sit still, everything will take 15-20 seconds, if you move - 45 seconds. The screen shows a circle that slowly fills with red liquid. If there were too many movements, after that the watch will remind you not to move and offer to repeat.

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After the measurement, data on the oxygen level and pulse are displayed, and if you remain in the same menu, the indicators change for some time. For example, during the first measurement, the final result first fell from 100% to 97%, then rose to 99% and was fixed there. The second control measurement showed a drop from 95 to 93% and an increase back to 94%.

The Honor Watch ES sensors did not respond to holding the breath, as well as to its increased frequency, showing a result of 98% in both cases.

Fitness bracelet device

The wrist accessory includes many elements.

1. Accelerometers. They record: the number of steps taken;
2. movement speed;
3. position in space.

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But the hardware details are not enough to display the data to the user. The bracelets are equipped with software that receives and processes the signals, and then translates them into numbers and words that are understandable to humans.

The results can always be viewed on the watch screen. Sometimes a smartphone app is required for additional processing.

How to choose a watch with blood pressure measurement

There are no perfect watches - everyone chooses what they like best. But it is worth analyzing the characteristics indicated in the table below:

Considering how little time a resident of a metropolis has for himself, the purchase of a wrist gadget is completely justified. By monitoring yourself 24/7, you can prevent the occurrence of many diseases, reduce the impact of stress on the body, and generally increase the length and quality of life.

Operating principle: how the bracelet determines blood pressure

The heart, along with contractions, sends electrical impulses. A piezoelectric pressure sensor measures the pulse wave. In response, they produce electronic signals of a certain magnitude.

What affects the measurement accuracy:

1. Sensitivity of hardware elements receiving the signal.
2. The quality of application calculations.
3. Correct measurement.
4. Manufacturer.

You can additionally indicate the price in the factors, but this does not mean that for a larger amount the watch will measure more accurately. The price includes many other criteria that have little effect on accuracy.

How to measure blood pressure correctly with a fitness bracelet

To get an accurate result, adhere to the following rules:

1. Read the manual for the device, which explains in detail how to use it. Many people skip this point and the answers to future questions.
2. The bracelet must fit against your hand and not dangle, otherwise the sensors will not record information well. Don't wear it too tight or loose.
3. Make sure your device is charged.
4. Avoid caffeine, cigarettes, or exercise before measuring your blood pressure.
5. Sit in a comfortable position, do not move or talk. Relax.
6. The hand should rest on a flat surface, such as a table.
7. Measure twice on the same arm, two minutes apart. Find the average. The result is always slightly different on different hands.

The principles are the same as when using a tonometer. The pressure will be measured much more accurately if you follow them.

Do not forget that the device stores recorded information and visualizes it over a period of time: day, week, day. Measure blood pressure under equal conditions to obtain a picture closer to reality. Or leave notes, for example, if the measurement was after a workout.

How accurate are blood pressure monitors in fitness bracelets?

In 2021, there were complaints from users of smart devices that the device finds the pulse even of inanimate objects. The problem affected inexpensive models and brands such as Apple Watch and Xiaomi Amazfit. As further tests showed, the measurement accuracy is about 80%.

Based on research data, gadget manufacturers have compiled a list of recommendations that will help obtain more reliable values:

1. Do not drink tea, coffee or energy drinks for 30-40 minutes before the procedure.
2. The skin of your hands should be dry.
3. Make sure the device fits snugly against your hand.
4. Place the device 1-2 cm below the wrist bone.
5. Measurements of cardiac activity should be taken in a sitting position, with your hand held at heart level.
6. During the data calculation process, remain silent and try not to move.

Compliance with the above recommendations cannot guarantee 100% accuracy of the results obtained. When using the device for medical purposes, it is recommended to double-check the data with a tonometer.

Top 3 devices that accurately measure blood pressure

WearFit F1 bracelet

1. Accurate measurement of heart rate and blood pressure.
2. Convenient body shape.

Prices:

Bizzaro F550

1. Bright screen.
2. Measurement results can be sent by mail.

1. A little expensive for its functionality.
2. Discharges quickly.

Prices:

FitCloud CK11S bracelet

1. Fits snugly to the hand.
2. The case is durable and comes in several colors.
3. Affordable price.

1. Synchronization with the phone is lost when the signal is lost.
2. The display is unclear.
3. For an accurate indicator, you need the average of several measurements.

Prices:

Purpose and benefits

The fitness bracelet is designed to always be aware of changes in blood pressure and pulse. The device is not a medical device, but still provides fairly accurate readings.

This bracelet is perfect for the following categories of people:

• Patients suffering from blood pressure problems.
• To old people.
• Patients with heart pathologies.
• Athletes.
• People who are overweight.

A fitness bracelet helps with the following:

• Always keep your blood pressure under control.
• Monitor your heart rate during physical activity.
• Timely detection of hypertensive crisis.

Athletes need to monitor their health during training to avoid excessive stress.

This device also has additional functions. The following options are possible:

1. Recording the exact time when the measurement was taken.
2. Saving blood pressure test results.
3. Pedometer.
4. Measuring body temperature.
5. Synchronization with computer.
6. Dehydration response sensor.

The exact list of additional functions depends on the specific device model.

The future belongs to smart gadgets

Today, the market for “smart” devices is filled with all sorts of new products. The capabilities of human condition meters are increasing, and their management is becoming simpler. Reliable affordable models are emerging. If for young people such gadgets are rather a tribute to modern fashion, then for older and sick people such devices are vital. Bracelets save time and effort. It is possible to transmit information remotely directly to the doctor using a smartphone. The main advantage is the ability to diagnose the condition every day and thereby prevent the occurrence of complications in cardiovascular diseases.

In addition to bracelets, there are devices that are fixed to clothing or the body. Many portable devices can measure oxygen levels in the blood, count the number of calories burned, monitor the intensity of physical activity and the quality of sleep. For elderly and lonely people, “alarm” bracelets are recommended, which assess the patient’s condition every second and transmit all data to the monitoring center so that help can be provided in a timely manner. When choosing a device, you should follow the recommendations of a doctor, who will take into account all the individual characteristics of the patient.

Principle of operation

A fitness bracelet with a heart rate monitor and blood pressure looks like a tight strap, which is equipped with sensors that help in measuring blood pressure. The sensors are located directly above the pulse points on the arm. When a person engages in physical activity, this device records changes in pressure and calculates the indicators.

A fitness bracelet with pressure measurement allows you to control your blood pressure without being distracted by measuring it.

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The readings are shown on the display. The bracelet notifies the patient about the measurement with a sound signal or slight vibration. This is very convenient because a person has the opportunity to promptly learn about an increased indicator and take urgent measures to normalize it.

How to use the bracelet?

The fitness bracelet for measuring blood pressure and pulse is quite easy to use. After purchasing the device, you should configure it. To do this, it is connected to a phone or computer. You will need to install a special program in order to synchronize both devices.

Through a smartphone or computer, you need to enter personal data about the patient, namely: age, height, body weight, normal blood pressure, pulse rate at rest. You will also need to configure the type of notification - sound or vibration.

The bracelet must be worn exclusively on the left hand. You need to make sure that the strap fits snugly against your skin. Otherwise, pressure and pulse readings may be distorted.

The principle of operation of a smart watch with a blood pressure monitor

The device is based on the coordinated work of the built-in accelerometer and heart rate monitor, which should be located on the wrist. When wearing a smartwatch that measures blood pressure, you should make sure that it fits well, without pinching or hanging from your arm.

Otherwise, all the obtained values ​​will differ greatly from the real ones.

Before use, the user will need to be told about the following indicators:

• age;
• height;
• weight.

In some gadgets you will need to fill in volumes, physical activity, etc. This is necessary so that the watch can calculate the indicators more correctly. With age, the walls of blood vessels become denser, and the subcutaneous layer interferes with the reception of signals. This is all taken into account when creating the device, which is why developers ask to enter the maximum number of indicators.

Important : It is better to synchronize smart watches, for example, Galaxy Watch, with a mobile or tablet before use. A special application analyzes the data more correctly and produces results with minimal errors. The software is also convenient for creating charts and tracking how indicators change throughout the day.

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How to measure blood pressure correctly with a smart watch

For correct results of measuring blood pressure for hours, you should:

1. Wear the watch so that it fits your hand.
2. Fix them where there is no tattoo. Paint blocks IR signals, which may cause measurements to be less accurate.
3. Stop and place your hand at chest level when measuring pressure with a smart watch - this will make the readings more accurate. For the same reason, it is not advisable to chat while taking measurements.
4. Do not take measurements after eating, as well as drinking coffee, strong tea and other stimulating foods, as they directly affect pulse and blood pressure.

Important : When playing sports, the correct values ​​are shown during rhythmic movements such as jogging or roller skating. Kickboxing and other high-impact activities may vary results slightly.

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How accurate are blood pressure readings with a watch?

Body parameters are recorded by determining the heart rate and the speed of pulse propagation inside the vessels through a light-sensitive sensor. Taking into account dozens of variables, such as the color of the epidermis, the depth of the veins and the presence of plaques on the vessels, the accuracy of the results varies between 5-15%.

You shouldn’t expect medical accuracy from a watch that measures pressure inside blood vessels and pulse, but the gadget is guaranteed to signal if something is wrong with the body.

Interesting fact: Initially, the errors of wrist devices reached 30%, but every year the devices become more and more accurate. There is a high probability that in 5-10 years they will measure with the accuracy of a mechanical tonometer.

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How to choose a smart bracelet?

A fitness bracelet must be chosen depending on what exactly it is needed for. For hypertensive patients, the most important thing is that the device is of high quality and accurately measures blood pressure readings. It is worth choosing models from well-known manufacturers that have already proven themselves well.

For older people, it is also enough to choose a simple bracelet that only measures blood pressure and pulse. For patients of this age, this will be enough not to get lost in settings and additional functions.

Athletes and overweight people need to choose devices with wide functionality. It is important for them that the device not only measures blood pressure and pulse, but also has a pedometer.

One of the important parameters of a fitness bracelet is its moisture resistance.

Top 10 best fitness bracelets with heart rate and pressure measurement functions

Fitness trackers occupy a large segment of the market for sporting goods and gadgets. The main difference is the cost and functionality of the devices. Pensioners and athletes need to pay attention to devices that can measure blood pressure and heart rate.