Which part of the hand is primarily used for detecting subtle changes during palpation?

The finger pads are considered the primary part of the hand used for detecting subtle changes during palpation due to their anatomical and functional characteristics. The pads at the fingertips contain a high density of tactile receptors, including Merkel cells, which are sensitive to light touch and can discern fine details. This sensitivity allows for the detection of minute variations in texture, temperature, and other subtle changes in the tissues being examined.

Additionally, the flexibility and positioning of the finger pads enable practitioners to maintain light contact with the surface of skin and underlying structures, enhancing their ability to sense changes in tension, consistency, and even the vibrational frequency of tissues. This makes them particularly effective in providing detailed information about the condition and quality of the tissues during assessment.

In contrast, other parts of the hand, such as the thumb pad, base of fingers, and palms, may not provide the same level of sensitivity or fine control which is critical during the palpation process. The thumb pad is useful for grasping and stabilizing but is not as adept as the finger pads in fine tactile discrimination. The base of the fingers and the palms, while providing a broader surface area, are designed for different functions and may lack the same density of receptors focused on detecting subtle changes.