What is the purpose of the palpation examination in chiropractic practice?

The purpose of the palpation examination in chiropractic practice is to identify areas of dysfunction and spinal misalignment. Palpation involves the skilled use of the hands to assess the condition of the spine and surrounding tissues. By feeling for abnormalities in the alignment, tone, texture, and temperature of the muscles and vertebrae, chiropractors can detect any areas of restriction or tension that might contribute to a patient's symptoms or overall musculoskeletal health. This examination is essential in forming a diagnosis and determining the appropriate course of treatment.

Measuring blood pressure, providing patient education, and conducting strength testing are important aspects of healthcare but are not the primary objectives of palpation. Blood pressure measurements relate to cardiovascular health, while patient education focuses on informing patients about their conditions and treatment. Strength testing evaluates muscle function and is more relevant to assessing neuromuscular conditions rather than directly identifying spinal issues. Thus, palpation specifically targets the identification of dysfunction and misalignment, which is critical in chiropractic practice.