Skip to main content
Update Location

My Location

Update your location to show providers, locations, and services closest to you.

Enter a zip code
Or
Select a campus/region

Physical examination

Definition

During a physical examination, a health care provider checks your body to determine if you do or do not have a physical problem.

A physical examination usually includes:

  • Inspection (looking at the body)
  • Palpation (feeling the body with fingers or hands)
  • Auscultation (listening to sounds, usually with a stethoscope)
  • Percussion (producing sounds, usually by tapping on specific areas of the body)

References

Swartz MH, Swartz TH. The physical examination. In: Swartz MH, ed. Textbook of Physical Diagnosis: History and Examination. 8th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 6.

Last reviewed February 2, 2023 by Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team..

Related specialties

Community and Patient Programs: Physical examination

Our community and patient programs provide great value to patients, families and loved ones. People can find support, educational materials, expert consultants and more. In most instances, these programs are offered free of charge.

News and Patient Stories: Physical examination

Are You at Risk of a Hernia?

Almost everyone has heard of a hernia, but few understand its potential risks. Over five million people in the United States will suffer from a hernia, yet…

Person carrying two boxes
More Physical examination stories