Abstract: A strain gauge comprises a tensoresistor sensitive element (1), a mechanical compensating element (10) and a spacer element (9) made of a material whose linear thermal expansion coefficient is substantially lower than the thermal expansion coefficient of the material of the mechanical element (10). The latter carries a heater element (15) and a thermoresistor element (16) intended for programmed straining of the mechanical element (10) in the course of the adjustment and calibration of the gauge. An electric circuit for adjusting and calibrating a strain gauge is a bridge circuit inserted into each of the two adjacent arms of which is a tensoresistor (3,4) of the sensitive element (1). Connected to a vertex (32) of a half-bridge circuit is the heater element (15), whereas to the other vertex (37) thereof is the thermoresistor element (16).