During abdominal examination, which description best defines rebound tenderness?

During abdominal examination, which description best defines rebound tenderness?

• A. Pain that worsens during pressing
• B. Pain that disappears on release of pressure
• C. Pain that occurs after releasing pressure
• D. Pain that is present only with deep palpation

Answer: (C)

Rebound tenderness reflects peritoneal irritation. When you press the abdomen deeply, you stretch the peritoneum and underlying tissues; if the patient then feels pain upon quick release, the inflamed peritoneum rubs against itself as it returns to its position, triggering the painful response. That post-release pain is what makes rebound tenderness the best description for this sign. If the pain were only during pressing, it would point to local tenderness or guarding rather than peritoneal irritation; if it disappears on release or appears only with very deep palpation, those do not fit rebound tenderness. In practice, demonstrate by applying firm pressure, then release quickly; a positive finding is pain that is worse after release and in the same area.

Rebound tenderness reflects peritoneal irritation. When you press the abdomen deeply, you stretch the peritoneum and underlying tissues; if the patient then feels pain upon quick release, the inflamed peritoneum rubs against itself as it returns to its position, triggering the painful response. That post-release pain is what makes rebound tenderness the best description for this sign. If the pain were only during pressing, it would point to local tenderness or guarding rather than peritoneal irritation; if it disappears on release or appears only with very deep palpation, those do not fit rebound tenderness. In practice, demonstrate by applying firm pressure, then release quickly; a positive finding is pain that is worse after release and in the same area.