LATERAL AND ANTERIOR - POSTERIOR RIB TESTS

​• ​Test positioning

Position #1. The client lies supine.

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

Position #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

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

Position #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.

​• Special 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.