Which term refers to the skillful application of touch to assess the body?

The term "palpation" specifically refers to the skillful application of touch used to assess the body's structures and tissues. This technique is essential in various fields, including massage therapy, as it allows practitioners to evaluate muscle tone, detect areas of tension, and identify any abnormalities in soft tissues or joints. Palpation enables the therapist to gain valuable information that guides treatment decisions, making it a fundamental skill in the assessment process.

The other terms, while related to touch and physical interaction, do not encompass the same level of specificity as palpation. Compression refers to applying pressure to tissues, often intended to relieve tension or pain, rather than assess. Manipulation involves more dynamic movements or adjustments, typically applied in a chiropractic context to improve function or alleviate pain, rather than simply assessing the body. Assessment is a broader term that could include palpation but does not specifically denote the skillful application of touch that distinguishes palpation as a crucial diagnostic technique in massage therapy.