Which method is primarily used to assess joint and spinal mobility during an examination?

Palpation is the primary method used to assess joint and spinal mobility during an examination because it involves the hands-on evaluation of the body. By using palpation, practitioners can gather essential information about the texture, temperature, and tenderness of tissues, along with the mobility of joints and the range of motion in the spine. This tactile approach allows chiropractors to feel for any deviations, restrictions, or abnormalities that may not be observable through other examination techniques.

Observation plays a role in assessing a patient’s posture, movement patterns, and overall physical appearance, but it does not provide the detailed information about the soft tissues and underlying structures that palpation does. Auscultation, on the other hand, involves listening for sounds within the body, primarily useful for cardiovascular or respiratory assessments. Imaging techniques, such as X-rays or MRIs, provide valuable insights into the structural aspects of the spine and joints but do not assess mobility directly during a physical examination.

The direct hands-on assessment provided by palpation is essential in chiropractic practice for diagnosing and planning treatment for conditions related to joint and spinal mobility.