Sunken pulse

Also deep pulse (Obs.). A pulse that is distinct only at the deep level. The sunken pulse is usually associated with interior disease, although the exterior patterns of externally contracted diseases may temporarily present with a tight sunken pulse when the body’s yáng qì is obstructed.

Similar pulses: The hidden pulse is even deeper than the sunken pulse and considerable pressure has to be applied in order to feel it. The Bīn-Hú Sphygmology (濒湖脉学 bīn hú mài xué) states, The hidden pulse is found by pressing through the sinews right to the bone. It is associated with fulminant desertion of yáng qì and deep-lying cold, and generally appears in conjunction with severe vomiting, diarrhea, and pain. The weak pulse is sunken and forceless and is associated with vacuity of qì and blood. The firm pulse is sunken and forceful and feels as though tied to the bone, hence its name. It is associated with cold pain. In clinical practice, this pulse is described as a stringlike sunken pulse or a sunken replete pulse, the term firm pulse having fallen into disuse.