Frank,

To me, palpation is one of the big three skills I offer (visual observation and listening are the other two). Education forms the basis of palpation, but clinical practice is essential to hone your skills. You need to know both what you are looking for, as well as the curiosity to search beyond your expectations. This is the key to successful therapy.

Very well said

Walt Fritz, PT said:

Frank,

To me, palpation is one of the big three skills I offer (visual observation and listening are the other two). Education forms the basis of palpation, but clinical practice is essential to hone your skills. You need to know both what you are looking for, as well as the curiosity to search beyond your expectations. This is the key to successful therapy.

Paula,

Count me in disagreement.

Without education, listening has little value, as you don't know what to listen for. Education teaches you what can harm and what can't.

Visual skills of observation give me a starting point; I begin with a visual analysis. Not necessary for all, I know, but a postural assessment starts me in the right direction. A person without vision could certainly be a highly effective therapist, but I use what I was given.