What is pulse diagnosis?

Pulse diagnosis, also known as sphygmology, is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) technique used to assess a person's health by feeling the pulse at specific points on the wrist. TCM practitioners believe that the pulse can provide information about the balance of yin and yang, the flow of qi (energy), and the state of the internal organs.

In pulse diagnosis, the TCM practitioner uses their fingers to palpate the radial artery on the wrist, typically at three different positions: cun (near the thumb), guan (in the middle), and chi (near the pinky finger). Each position is associated with different organs and systems of the body. The practitioner assesses the pulse in terms of its rate, rhythm, strength, and quality.

TCM practitioners believe that imbalances in the pulse can indicate various health conditions. For example, a weak pulse may suggest qi deficiency, while a rapid pulse may indicate an excess of yang. By identifying the imbalances in the pulse, TCM practitioners can develop a personalized treatment plan using acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other TCM techniques to restore balance and harmony to the body.

It's important to note that pulse diagnosis is a traditional practice and lacks scientific evidence to support its accuracy in diagnosing or predicting health conditions. While it may be part of TCM assessment, relying solely on pulse diagnosis without seeking proper medical care can be dangerous. Modern medicine and evidence-based practices should be the primary approach to diagnosing and managing health conditions.