|
Anterior-Posterior Rib Compression Test |
|
Examination type |
Bony
integrity |
|
Patient & Body Segment Positioning |
The patient
can either be seated on the edge of a table or standing with the
arms hanging by the sides |
|
Examiner Position |
The examiner
stands to the side of the patient with hands on anterior and
posterior aspects of the ribcage. |
|
Tissues
Being Tested |
Costal
bones, costal cartilage |
|
|
The examiner
pushes the hands together to compress the ribcage and then
releases the pressure. |
|
Positive Test |
Pain or
point tenderness with compression of the ribcage |
|
Interpretation |
Indicates
possibility of a fracture, contusion, or costochondral
separation |
|
Common errors in
performing exam |
Hands should
be directly across from each other; test should be performed on
both sides of the ribcage separately |
|
Factors possibly
resulting in misinterpretation |
External
bruising may also cause pain with compression. |
|
Related tests |
Lateral rib
compression test |
|
References |
Magee.
Orthopedic Physical Assessment. 4th Ed. 2002. |
|
Links: |
http://bama.disted.ua.edu/hat257/chapter9final.htm
http://www.mtsu.edu/~wwhitechi/atep/258/chap9.html |
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