Palpating

Palpation is a manual examination technique in which a clinician uses the hands to feel structures beneath the skin. The purpose is to assess characteristics such as tenderness, texture, temperature, moisture, contour, size, position, and mobility of tissues and organs. Palpation is a standard component of the physical examination and is often performed after inspection and before auscultation, guiding further testing and management.

Techniques include light palpation (gentle pressure with fingertips to detect superficial findings) and deep palpation (firmer pressure to evaluate deeper structures). Palmar surfaces or finger pads are used depending on the region; bimanual palpation employs two hands for stabilization and palpation. Examiners usually expose the area, warm their hands, and ensure patient comfort; instructing the patient to breathe out can relax abdominal muscles and improve access to underlying structures.

Common applications include assessment of the abdomen, breasts, lymph nodes, pulses, joints, and soft tissues. Palpation can identify tenderness, masses, organ enlargement, fluid, or temperature changes. It has limitations: accuracy depends on the examiner’s experience and patient factors such as body habitus or pain. Findings should be interpreted alongside history, imaging, and laboratory tests. Safety principles include avoiding excessive pressure, stopping if the patient experiences severe or worsening pain, and maintaining hygiene.

History and training: Palpation has long been taught as a core clinical skill, with standardized maneuvers described in medical curricula. Beyond diagnostic use, palpation is also employed in some therapeutic approaches and in veterinary medicine, with region-specific techniques.