The external pulse, called Piao, is subdivided into several varieties.
1. The superficial P. in Féou, which yields to the slightest pressure.
2. The hollow P. Kong, which announces that the artery is empty when pressed upon.
3. The slippery P. Hang, which slides under the fingers, like the beads of a necklace.
4. The full P. Ché, striking against the fingers with a full caliber of blood.
5. The tremulous P. Hien, vibrating like the chord of a musical instrument.
6. The intermittent P. Kin, vibrating by starts, like the instrument called Kin.
7. The regurgitating P. Hong, the strong pulsation of a full and distended vessel.
These seven characters are considered much more favourable than the eight which follow, and which, arising from a deeper action, require a more forcible pressure.
1. The deep P. Tehin, only discovered by a firm pressure.