| (a) | Strong extremities with a normal muscle tonus are a sign of sufficient Qi, Blood, and body fluids. Swelling may be a sign of Dampness, excess, or deficiency. | |
| (b) | The nails and nail beds are related to the Liver. | |
| (i) | Dull and brittle nails can indicate a deficiency of Liver Blood. | |
| (ii) | Pale nail beds are an indication of Cold or Blood Deficiency. | |
| (iii) | Red nail beds indicate presence of Heat. | |
| (iv) | Bluish nail beds indicate stasis or presence of Cold. | |
