Consultation

4 Steps of Traditional Chinese Medicine Diagnosis

The diagnostic process of Chinese medicine involves four areas, known as the Four Examinations. These are:

Looking

Listening

Asking

Pulse Taking

1

Looking

Observation of the patient's complexion, eyes, tongue, nails, gait (overall physical appearance), openness, and emotional demeanor.

2

Listening

The focus being on the sound of the voice and breathing, as well as any odors associated with the body, or breath.

3

Asking

Asking for information on present and past complaints including appetite, digestion, bowel movement, bladder, sweat, pain, patterns of sleep, family health history, work, living habits, physical environment, and emotional life.

4

Pulse Taking

Palpation, or touching the body to determine temperature, moisture, pain or sensitivity, and the taking of the pulse. The chinese method of pulse taking involves placing three fingers on each wrist to measure a total of 12 pulses, each associated with a corresponding meridian. Fourteen different pulse characteristics (slow, rapid, full, empty, etc.) are compared with each of the 12 pulses, and are used to determine which organ is not working properly.

Every treatment at Han Acuherbs begins with a detailed Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) consultation. This allows us to understand your situation fully and create a personalised plan that supports your overall wellbeing.

What to Expect

During your consultation at our Blaby, Leicester clinic, we will:

• Listen carefully to your main concerns and your health history.

• Ask about your lifestyle, sleep, digestion and energy levels.

• Observe features such as your tongue and general appearance.

• Gently feel your pulse at both wrists, using traditional TCM pulse-taking methods.

This information helps us to form a TCM-based understanding of how your body is functioning at the moment. We then discuss a suitable treatment plan with you, which may include acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine and other supportive therapies such as Tui Na or cupping.

Working Alongside Your Usual Medical Care

Your consultation and treatment at Han Acuherbs are designed to complement, not replace, any diagnosis or treatment you receive from your GP or hospital team. We will always encourage you to continue with prescribed medication and medical follow-up, and to seek medical advice promptly if you experience new or worrying symptoms.

Free Initial Consultation

We offer a free initial consultation so you can ask questions, get to know our approach and decide whether acupuncture and TCM-based care feel right for you. There is no obligation to proceed with treatment.