If indicated on the basis of the history-taking, the thoracic wall can be examined for tender points by palpation (for example if a rib fracture is suspected). Palpate the thorax for bipolar and local tender points.
Procedure
- ask the patient to indicate whether they have pain anywhere and if so, where
- lay one hand on the sternum and the other on the spinal column, and compress briefly and with adequate pressure that potential bone fragments are pressed together [Figure 19]
Figure 19: Palpation of the thorax for bipolar and local tender points
- repeat the technique with both hands positioned on the lateral ribcage
[Figure 20]
Figure 20: Palpation of the thorax for bipolar and local tender points – the sides
- if needed, palpate the painful region with the finger tips and search for the area of maximum pain [Figure 21]
Figure 21: Palpation of the thorax for regional pain