User:Bcobb3/Lateral and Anterior/Posterior Rib Compression Tests

The Rib Compression Test is commonly used to determine if there is a rib fracture or injury. When the rib cage is compressed either from anterior to posterior forces or from lateral forces, pain could implicate several possible injuries.

Lateral and Anterior/Posterior Rib Compression Tests

Purpose
The purpose of this test is to determine if a patient has a rib fracture. Compression from the examiner will cause a deformation of the rib cage, which will result in pain if a frature is present.

Procedure
Patient should be seated or standing, while the examiner places hands on opposite sides of the rib cage. The examiner then applies a compressive force to the rib cage both anterior to posterior and to the lateral sides.

Mechanism
The rib cage is being compressed.

Results
If there is pain in the rib cage during compression, there could be a possible fracture, contusion, or costochondral separation.

Adverse Effects (or "legal issues")
This test is contraindicated if there is potential lung trauma.