What are the components of TART used in somatic dysfunction assessment?

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In somatic dysfunction assessment, TART is the framework used to palpate and categorize abnormalities in four domains: Texture, Asymmetry, Restriction of motion, and Tenderness. Each domain helps you identify where and how the body’s tissues are behaving abnormally.

Texture refers to the feel of the skin and underlying tissues. Normal tissue feels smooth and uniform; changes like a boggy, ropy, fibrotic, or edematous feel indicate altered tissue texture that can accompany somatic dysfunction. It’s important to compare bilaterally to spot subtle differences.

Asymmetry means there is an imbalance in structure or motion between corresponding areas on opposite sides of the body. This isn’t just about obvious deformities; small differences in height, rotation, or softness of tissues can reveal underlying dysfunction when you assess multiple planes and compare sides.

Restriction of motion is about a reduced ability of a segment or region to move through its normal range. This is assessed by passive and sometimes active movement tests. A true restriction points to a joint or myofascial limitation caused by dysfunction rather than just voluntary guarding.

Tenderness is pain elicited upon palpation of a tissue or joint area. Local tenderness helps localize the dysfunctional area and provides a cue about the severity or acuity of the dysfunction.

Other options mix elements that aren’t part of TART, such as temperature changes, tremor, or different terms for motion or alignment. The standard four components—Texture, Asymmetry, Restriction of motion, and Tenderness—form the basis for identifying somatic dysfunction during palpation.