Which traditional practice involves palpating the pulse to diagnose health conditions?

The traditional practice that involves palpating the pulse to diagnose health conditions is sphygmopalpation. This technique is rooted in the assessment of the pulse as a means to gather information about an individual's health. Practitioners often believe that the characteristics of the pulse—such as its rate, rhythm, and strength—can reveal insights into the body's condition, helping them to identify various health issues.

In contrast, glossoscopy refers to the examination of the tongue, which can provide information about a patient’s health but does not involve pulse palpation. Anamnesis involves collecting a patient’s medical history, focusing on subjective accounts rather than physical examinations like pulse measurement. Osphretics pertains to the sense of smell in a medical context and is also not related to pulse assessment. Understanding these terms highlights the unique role that sphygmopalpation plays in traditional diagnostic practices centered on pulse diagnosis.