A pulse represents the rhythmic throbbing of an artery as blood is propelled through it with each heartbeat. It serves as a straightforward indicator of your cardiovascular system’s function. By feeling your pulse, you can gain insight into how effectively your heart is pumping blood throughout your body.
What is a Radial Pulse?
The radial pulse is commonly assessed on the wrist, specifically on the thumb side. This location is preferred due to the radial artery’s accessibility, as it runs close to the skin’s surface along the radius bone, the larger of the two forearm bones.
To find it, look just below the base of your thumb where your wrist meets your hand. The radial artery carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the hand, making its pulsation a direct reflection of heart activity and a convenient site for checking pulse rate and strength.
Understanding Pulse Strength Ratings
Pulse strength is graded on a numerical scale, typically ranging from 0 to 4+. Each number indicates a different level of pulse intensity, providing a standardized way to describe its characteristics.
A rating of 0 signifies no palpable pulse. A 1+ pulse is weak or thready, faint but detectable. A 2+ pulse is considered normal, reflecting a healthy and easily palpable beat. This rating indicates a strong and regular pulse, which is the expected finding in a healthy individual.
A 3+ pulse is categorized as bounding, feeling stronger than normal. Some scales also include a 4+ rating, which also indicates a bounding pulse. These ratings help healthcare professionals assess blood flow and identify potential circulatory issues.
How to Check Your Pulse
To check your radial pulse, turn one hand palm-side up and slightly extend the wrist to bring the artery closer to the surface. Place the pads of your index and middle fingers on the inner wrist, just below the base of the thumb, in the groove along the radial bone. Avoid using your thumb, as it has its own pulse and could lead to an inaccurate reading.
Apply gentle pressure, just enough to feel the rhythmic throbbing of the pulse. If you press too hard, you might block the blood flow and not feel the pulse at all. Once you locate the pulse, count the number of beats for 30 seconds and then multiply that number by two to get your beats per minute. For a more precise reading, especially if the rhythm feels irregular, count for a full 60 seconds.