The Art of Pulse Taking
A TCM pulse reading is far more nuanced than checking heart rate. Practitioners use three fingers across three positions on each wrist (Cun, Guan, Chi — corresponding to different organ pairs), applied at superficial and deep pressure.
28 classical pulse qualities are described in Chinese medical texts — including rate, strength, depth, width, rhythm, tension, and texture. Learning to distinguish these qualities accurately takes years of clinical training.
What the Pulse Reveals
Each position reflects a different organ system. Left wrist positions reflect Heart/Small Intestine, Liver/Gallbladder, and Kidney (Yin). Right wrist positions reflect Lung/Large Intestine, Spleen/Stomach, and Kidney (Yang).
Common pulse findings: Wiry (Liver Qi stagnation), Slippery (phlegm-damp), Thin (Blood deficiency), Rapid (heat), Slow (cold or deficiency), Deep (interior condition), Superficial (exterior/recent condition).
Pulse Monitoring Over Treatment
We re-assess the pulse at each session. Changes in pulse quality — becoming stronger, smoother, or slower — confirm that treatment is working. The pulse serves as an ongoing feedback mechanism guiding treatment adjustment.
Key Takeaways
- Three positions on each wrist, at two depths = 12 readings
- 28 classical pulse qualities are used in diagnosis
- Pulse reveals current state of all 12 organ systems
- Changes in pulse quality confirm treatment is working
- Learning pulse diagnosis accurately takes many years of clinical training
Experience Pulse Diagnosis
Book your appointment at Lane Cove and receive a detailed TCM pulse assessment.
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