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Basics of Pulse Diagnosis in TCM

Apr 22, 2025

Introduction to Pulse Diagnosis

Overview

  • The lecture covers the basics of pulse diagnosis using the system of RDSQ (Rate, Depth, Strength, Quality).
  • Emphasis on systematic approach rather than poetic descriptions.
  • Importance of practice: Suggested taking and logging 1,000 pulses to gain proficiency.

Importance of Pulse Diagnosis

  • Common interest among students to improve skills in pulse diagnosis.
  • Historically challenging due to vague teaching methods.

Systematic Approach: RDSQ

Rate

  • Fast vs. Slow
    • Old method: Counting beats per breath.
    • Modern method: Using a clock.
    • Slow: < 60 beats per minute; Rapid: > 90 beats per minute.

Depth

  • Superficial vs. Deep
    • Light touch (butterfly landing analogy) to feel superficial pulses.
    • More pressure for deep pulses.
    • Beginner mistake: Pressing too hard too quickly.

Strength

  • Forceful vs. Forceless
    • Measures how strongly the pulse pushes back.
    • Forceful pulse has a large waveform amplitude.

Quality

  • Diameter of the Vessel
    • Thin/Fine/Thready vs. Large
  • Edge of the Vessel
    • Wiry vs. Non-wiry
  • Flow of Blood in Vessel
    • Slippery vs. Choppy

Diagnostic Information from Pulse

  • Rate: Indicates heat (fast) or cold (slow).
  • Depth: Superficial for exterior conditions, deep for interior conditions.
  • Strength: Forceful for excess conditions, forceless for deficiency.
  • Quality: Can indicate various conditions but more complex.

Connection to Eight Principal Diagnosis

  • Utilize pulse characteristics to determine heat/cold, interior/exterior, excess/deficiency.

Pulse Images

  • Simplifying 29 pulse images through RDSQ method.
  • Some images are combinations of basic attributes.

Pulse Positions

  • Beginners should focus on identifying the strongest/weakest position.
  • Positions can represent different organs, channels, or body regions.

Recommended Reading

  • "Secrets of Chinese Pulse Diagnosis" by Bob Flaws
  • "Pulse Studies: An Illustrated Guide" by Li Shizhen and William Morris
    • Both offer different strengths in understanding pulse diagnosis.

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This lecture provides a foundational understanding of pulse diagnosis in traditional Chinese medicine, emphasizing a systematic approach that aids in gaining diagnostic clarity and improving clinical skills.

Full transcript