Softness and looseness may appear similar to weakness, except that some springiness remains in the muscles. Softness does is not as great a sign of vacancy as is weakness. Hardness on the surface and hardness below Hardness on the surface and softness below Softness on the surface and hardness below Softness on the surface and softness below Palpation around the midline will reveal softness on the surface and hardness below. Lumps Lumps have varying significance depending upon their location, size, and quality. Moving lumps are more yang in nature and easier to treat.
Stationary lumps are more yin in nature and more difficult to treat.
Rule out the possibility that some lumps may be gas or stools in the intestines. Most lumps are not tumorous, but consists of knots of muscle or other tissues. Usually if a tumor feels smooth and not irregular it is probably benign, if it has irregular edges it could be more dangerous. It is generally advisable to not palpate directly on a lump, but around it. Their significance varies with their relative strength, depth and location.