Four Diagnostic Methods (Si-Zhen)

diagnostics

Diagnosis in TCM is based on four methods. Inspection (wan) involves assessing appearance, complexion, and especially the tongue—its body and coating. Listening and smelling (wen) involve assessing the voice, breathing, and odors. Inquiry (wen) clarifies complaints, sleep, appetite, bowel movements, menstruation, and sensations of cold and heat. Palpation (ce) primarily involves examining the pulse at three positions on each hand. The combined data is synthesized into a syndrome (证), which determines the treatment principle.