Pulse Diagnosis

Pulse diagnosis is a technique that involves using three fingers to press the radial artery located on the wrist. The throbbing segment of the radial artery is divided into three sections, namely, the distal section, middle section, and proximal section. This technique is used to determine the pulse rate, force, wave, and other related factors.

The Nature of Diseases and the Pulse

In ancient China, numerous pulses were discovered, and today, about 28 pulses are frequently used in clinical practice. The nature of diseases can be determined by analyzing the pulse. For example, a superficial pulse is symptomatic of a superficial disease, a rapid pulse is symptomatic of a hot disease, and a slippery or sliding pulse is symptomatic of a sputum disease, indigestion, excess-heat disease, or pregnancy.

Normal and Abnormal Pulse

A normal pulse is also known as a constant pulse, which indicates stomach energy. It appears harmonious, slow, but forceful, and neither too fast nor too slow, with about four beats per act of respiration or 70 to 75 beats per minute. However, children may display a faster pulse, and pulse rate may also be influenced by physical activities, climate, and other environmental conditions.

Any pulse other than a normal one is considered an abnormal pulse. For instance, a big pulse is an abnormal pulse unless it is taken when a person is engaged in energetic activities.

The 28 Pulses

There are 28 pulses most frequently used in diagnosis, including depth-related pulses, frequency-related pulses, strength-related pulses, length-related pulses, movement-related pulses, change-related pulses, and combination pulses. The depth-related pulses include the superficial pulse and deep pulse, while the frequency-related pulses include the slow pulse and rapid pulse. The strength-related pulses include the deficiency pulse, excess pulse, big pulse, and small pulse. The length-related pulses include the long pulse and short pulse. The movement-related pulses include the slippery pulse, retarded pulse, and wiry pulse. The change-related pulses include the abrupt pulse, clotting pulse, and intermittent pulse. Finally, the combination pulses include the relaxed pulse, full pulse, disappearing pulse, tight pulse, soft pulse, weak pulse, drumming pulse, persisting pulse, shaking pulse, hidden pulse, dispersing pulse, and empty pulse.