LATERAL AND ANTERIOR/POSTERIOR RIB TESTS

​TEST POSITIONING

1. The client lies supine.

The therapist stands next to the client and places a hand on either side of the affected rib(s).

2. The client lies supine.

The therapist stands next to the client and places one hand over the affected rib(s) and the other hand posterior to the rib cage.

ACTION

1. The therapist compresses the lateral aspect of the rib cage bilaterally and then quickly releases.

2. The therapist compresses the rib cage anterior to posterior and quickly releases.

POSITIVE FINDING

Pain with compression or release of pressure indicates the possibility of a rib fracture, rib contusion, or costochondral separation.

CONSIDERATIONS & COMMENTS

​This test is contraindicated if there is an obvious deformity or possible lung trauma.

A modification to this test is known as the anterior/posterior rib compression test.