Understandin Pulse Diagnosis in Acupuncture.
Understanding Pulse Diagnosis in Acupuncture
Have you ever wondered why acupuncturists take your pulse on both sides? Or why it feels like they are playing a mini piano on your wrist? It's because, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and other East Asian practices, the pulse is so much more than just rate and strength. It is a direct line of communication, revealing how the Qi (energy) of your body is flowing and how well it travels through your system.
The Significance of Pulse Positions
The three positions acupuncturists feel on both sides of the body correspond to the energetics of different organs and organ systems. For example on the most basic level of understanding:
Upper position (right wrist): Provides information about the lung and large intestine systems.
Middle position: Relates to the spleen and stomach systems.
Lower position: Indicates the kidney yang system.
By feeling these positions, acupuncturists gain insight into the health of these systems, identifying blockages and areas that need attention.
Levels and Qualities of the Pulse
Acupuncturists are trained to feel the pulse at three different levels and then three positions on each side: superficial, middle, and deep. They also assess various qualities beyond just strength and pace. Some qualities include:
Tight: Like a violin string.
Thin: Like a thread.
Mushy: Like an overcooked noodle.
Depth: Can you feel it at all three levels?
Balance: Is one side stronger than the other?
This comprehensive understanding informs the selection of acupuncture points during your treatment. If you would like to read a more detailed blog post about the pulses check out this post by Drs Martin & Sue Allbright called Feeling or examining Chinese pulses. I like the amount of detail they share and how they describe things.
Pulse Diagnosis at Nourishing Energy Acupuncture
At Nourishing Energy Acupuncture, you may notice that I frequently check your pulse during treatments. I may insert needles and then feel your pulse again, possibly multiple times in a session. This is because simply touching points, and therefore needling them, can cause the pulse to respond and change. It's a beautiful way for me, or any acupuncturist, to listen to how your body responds to the treatment.
Our goal is to balance your body, bringing you closer to health. For instance, if your pulse was tight and fast when you came in, did it soften and slow down after the treatment?
Listening to Your Body
One of the primary goals of acupuncture is to balance and harmonize the body. Your body knows what it needs on an energetic level, even if your brain can't always articulate it. The pulse is one way we can communicate with your body.
Take a moment to feel your pulse on both sides. Can you notice a difference? What does it feel like? What is it whispering to you?
Take a listen—it's a beautiful thing.