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4. TAPOTEMENT (PERCUSSION)

This manipulation is always performed by the operator's wrist, the hands striking quickly.

We have four different kinds of Percussion:

• (a) CLAPPING (see Fig. 11) is performed with the palms of the hands. It is used to act upon the skin and the superficial nerves and vessels.

  In clapping it is advisable to spread a towel over the skin to avoid stinging.—(Editor).

• (b) HACKING (see Fig. 12) is performed with

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  the ulnar border of the hand. It is used around nerve centers and upon the muscles.
• (c) PUNCTATION (see Fig. 13) is performed with the tips of the fingers. It is used upon the head and in circles around the heart.
  

  FIG. 14.—Beating over the Sciatic Nerve.

  [Description: Drawing of two hands beating the buttocks and back of the thighs. A dotted line indicates movement. ]
• (d) BEATING (see Fig. 14) is performed by the clenched hand. It is used upon the glutei and upon the lower extremities over the sciatic nerve.