|
The Basics
The diagnostic
process of Chinese medicine involves four areas, known as the Four
Examinations. These are:
Observation
of the patient's complexion, eyes, tongue, nails, gait (overall physical
appearance), openness, and emotional demeanor.
Listening
and Smelling, the focus being on the sound of the
voice and breathing, as well as any odors associated with the body,
or breath.
Questioning
for information on present and past complaints including appetite,
digestion, bowel movement, bladder, sweat, pain, patterns of sleep,
family health history, work, living habits, physical environment, and
emotional life.
Palpation,
or touching the body to determine temperature, moisture, pain or sensitivity,
and the taking of the pulse. The chinese method of pulse taking involves
placing three fingers on each wrist to measure a total of 12 pulses,
each associated with a corresponding meridian. Fourteen different pulse
characteristics (slow, rapid, full, empty, etc.) are compared with
each of the 12 pulses, and are used to determine which organ is not
working properly.
Treatments aim
to adjust and restore the Yin/Yang balance, and may incorporate one
or more therapies, including:
- acupuncture
- herbal remedies
- exercise
- diet
- massage
|
