palpation

Palpation is a medical examination technique in which a clinician uses the sense of touch to assess the body. By applying pressure with the hands and fingers, the examiner evaluates texture, size, consistency, location, movement, and tenderness of tissues and organs. Palpation complements inspection, auscultation, and percussion and is used across medical specialties to gather information about anatomy and pathology.

There are different palpation methods. Light palpation uses gentle pressure to assess surface characteristics and tenderness, while deep palpation applies heavier pressure to feel deeper structures. Bimanual palpation employs two hands to envelop, stabilize, or compress a body part. Techniques vary by region: in the abdomen, circular motion with fingertip pads checks tenderness and organ size; in the breasts, systematic palpation helps detect nodules; in the limbs, palpation assesses pulses, swelling, or deformities; lymph nodes are assessed with small, circular motions.

Interpretation of palpation findings depends on the clinical context and other examination data. Palpation can reveal tenderness, guarding, rebound tenderness, masses, warmth, texture changes, crepitus, or abnormal pulsations. Patient comfort, relaxation, and proper hand warmth and lubrication influence accuracy. Clinicians should explain the procedure, proceed gently, and respect patient boundaries to minimize discomfort. Some conditions or acute injuries may limit palpation or require alternative assessments; safety and appropriateness should guide its use.

Training in palpation is foundational for physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, and other health professionals. It informs diagnosis, helps guide procedures such as biopsies or drainage, and supports monitoring of disease progression or treatment response.