Palpation temperature changes

Palpate hghtly. Pressme or friction causes vasodilation, creating temperature changes. 

The soft tissues and bony structures are then palpated to evaluate the integrity of the bones and the presence of any tenderness, masses, asymmetries, or crepitus. Any temperature changes should be noted, especially over the bursa and around the joints. Bony landmarks should be identified and compared between elbows. Swelling, especially over the olecranon bursa, should be noted. The olecranon bursa should not be palpable unless it is filled with fluid or thickened. 

The wrist and hand joints should be palpated for swelling, asymmetries, and tenderness. The skin of the wrist and hand shonld be evalnated for temperature and moisture changes. Tendons or joints may be tender. The anatomic snuffbox should be palpated. In case of trauma, any tenderness in this area should be noted, because the navicular is the most commonly fractured of the carpal bones. 

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