Pulse diagnosis
Pulse diagnosis is an important diagnostic tool in TCM. The art of pulse diagnosis is very difficult to master even with extensive training from a skilled TCM master. A radial pulse is usually use for diagnosis. In a healthy individual, the pulse should be easily palpated, regular in rhythm and with a frequency of 60- 90 beats per minutes. (1)(2)
Age, gender and change in season can influence the pulse and thus are taken into consideration during pulse diagnosis. As we age, the strength and quality of the pulse declines. Contrary to women, men tend to have a stronger left radial pulse compared to the right. Seasonal influence such as a wiry and taut pulse in the spring, a strong and tympanic pulse in the summer, superficial pulse in the fall and deep pulse in the winter can often be palpated especially in younger individuals. (1)(2)
During the pulse diagnosis, the following factors are taken into consideration (1)(2)
Age, gender and change in season can influence the pulse and thus are taken into consideration during pulse diagnosis. As we age, the strength and quality of the pulse declines. Contrary to women, men tend to have a stronger left radial pulse compared to the right. Seasonal influence such as a wiry and taut pulse in the spring, a strong and tympanic pulse in the summer, superficial pulse in the fall and deep pulse in the winter can often be palpated especially in younger individuals. (1)(2)
During the pulse diagnosis, the following factors are taken into consideration (1)(2)
- Depth – superficial vs deep
- Frequency – slow vs rapid
- Quality – hesitant vs slippery vs tight vs wiry
- Strength – empty vs full
- Length – short vs long
- Rhythm – hurried vs intermittent vs knotted
Reference:
1. Pulse diagnosis. http://www.yinyanghouse.com/theory/chinese/pulse_diagnosis. Accessed July 3, 2013
2. Overview of traditional Chinese medicine. eastwesthealingcenter.net/powerpoint-TCM.ppt. Accessed July 3, 2013
1. Pulse diagnosis. http://www.yinyanghouse.com/theory/chinese/pulse_diagnosis. Accessed July 3, 2013
2. Overview of traditional Chinese medicine. eastwesthealingcenter.net/powerpoint-TCM.ppt. Accessed July 3, 2013