The seven-step palpation method: A proposal to improve palpation skills

Palpation skills are fundamental in osteopathy because they affect clinical results. However, palpation is a complex task that requires the right combination of knowledge, skills, and attitude thus making it a real challenge to teach. This article describes a seven-step palpation method that promotes the development of palpation skills by gradually mastering their complexity. This innovative teaching approach is based on well-known cognitive and motor learning theories and addresses technical as well as perceptual considerations. For the last three years, the Seven-Step Palpation Method has been used at the Centre Ostéopathique du Québec. The advantages and challenges of its implementation are discussed along with the main issues of osteopathic palpation.