What is the process of palpation primarily used for?

Palpation is a physical examination technique used primarily to detect abnormalities through touch. During this process, a healthcare provider uses their hands to feel various parts of the patient's body, checking for issues such as abnormal masses, fluid buildup, organ size, or tenderness in certain areas. This tactile method is essential for diagnosing conditions that may not be visible through diagnostic imaging or other examination techniques.

The other options, while relevant to different examination techniques, do not accurately represent the primary purpose of palpation. Assessing body movements typically involves evaluating range of motion and strength, which is different from the tactile examination involved in palpation. Listening for heart sounds is conducted through auscultation, which utilizes a stethoscope, clearly distinguishing it from the touch-based method of palpation. Visualization of internal organs is generally achieved through imaging technologies, like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs, rather than through manual examination. Thus, the primary function of palpation as a means of detecting abnormalities through touch remains distinctly relevant and accurate.