TCM diagnosis
How does diagnosis work in traditional Chinese medicine?
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) uses the «four pillars» in diagnosis to determine energetic imbalances. These pillars include observation (especially of the tongue), hearing and smelling (voice, breath), questioning (lifestyle habits, pain sensation) and palpation (pulse diagnosis on both wrists).
The aim is to recognize an individual pattern of disharmony rather than individual symptoms. This holistic assessment forms the basis for the individual treatment plan, which may include acupuncture, herbal medicine or massages.
How does tongue diagnosis work in TCM?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the tongue is regarded as a mirror of the internal organs. The TCM practitioner assesses the color, shape and coating of the tongue. For example, a red tongue indicates heat, a thick coating indicates dampness or phlegm.
In addition, certain areas of the tongue are assigned to individual organs (for example the tip to the heart and the edges to the liver and gall bladder). This snapshot provides precise indications of the state of blood, juices and the life energy Qi.
How does pulse diagnosis work in TCM?
In TCM, pulse diagnosis is a highly sensitive palpation procedure on both wrists. The therapist uses three fingers to feel the radial artery at three different depths (superficial, medium, deep).
A distinction is made between over 28 different pulse qualities (e.g. slippery, saggy or thread-like). Each position and depth is assigned to specific organ systems, allowing conclusions to be drawn about the state of Qi and blood as well as chronic or acute imbalances.
How long does a diagnosis take in TCM?
An initial diagnosis (anamnesis) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) usually takes 15 minutes. This time is necessary to carry out the «four pillars» of TCM thoroughly (questioning, looking at the tongue and face, listening and smelling as well as a detailed pulse diagnosis). This is the only way to recognize an individual pattern of disharmony.
