What health issues can rebound tenderness indicate?
Mar 26, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
In general, rebound tenderness refers to increased pain experienced by a patient when a physician quickly releases pressure from the abdomen during a physical examination. It may indicate underlying health issues such as appendicitis, cholecystitis, gastric perforation, pelvic inflammatory disease, or intestinal obstruction. Rebound tenderness is a sign of enhanced irritation of the peritoneum and typically suggests the presence of inflammation or pathology within the abdominal cavity. Patients experiencing rebound tenderness should seek medical attention promptly.
In general, rebound tenderness refers to increased pain experienced by a patient when a physician rapidly releases pressure during an abdominal examination. It may indicate health issues such as appendicitis, cholecystitis, gastric perforation, pelvic inflammatory disease, intestinal obstruction, etc. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Appendicitis
Acute appendicitis is the most common condition causing rebound tenderness, typically presenting as pain in the lower right abdomen, which significantly intensifies during rebound tenderness examination. It may be accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever. It is recommended to remove the appendix under a doctor's guidance to eliminate inflammation and pain.
2. Cholecystitis
Rebound tenderness caused by cholecystitis is usually located in the upper abdomen or upper right quadrant, accompanied by tenderness, muscle tension, and other symptoms. Patients may also experience nausea, vomiting, fever, jaundice, and other manifestations. Under a doctor's guidance, treatment may involve medications such as anti-inflammatory and bile-promoting tablets, Chushu soft capsules, and Cefuroxime Axetil tablets.
3. Gastric Perforation
Rebound tenderness caused by gastric perforation is typically very severe, presenting as knife-like or burning pain rapidly spreading throughout the abdomen. Patients may also experience symptoms such as shock, nausea, and vomiting. Surgery to repair the perforated site under a doctor's guidance is recommended to prevent further spread of intra-abdominal infection.
4. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Rebound tenderness caused by pelvic inflammatory disease is typically located in the lower abdomen, accompanied by tenderness and muscle tension. Patients may also experience symptoms such as headache, chills, loss of appetite, and difficulty urinating. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Levofloxacin Hydrochloride tablets, Azithromycin Dispersible tablets, and Fuke Qianjin tablets may be used for treatment.
5. Intestinal Obstruction
Rebound tenderness caused by intestinal obstruction is typically located in the abdominal area near the site of obstruction, accompanied by tenderness, abdominal distension, vomiting, and cessation of flatus and defecation. Under a doctor's guidance, treatments may include gastrointestinal decompression, correction of water-electrolyte and acid-base imbalances, anti-infective therapy, and nutritional support.
Rebound tenderness indicates enhanced irritation of the peritoneum, typically suggesting the presence of inflammation or lesions within the abdominal cavity. Therefore, once rebound tenderness occurs, patients should seek timely medical consultation to undergo relevant examinations for determining the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment under medical guidance. Additionally, during treatment, patients should cultivate good lifestyle habits and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods to facilitate recovery.
References:
[1] Yao Jiahui, Pu Shaofeng, Du Dongping. Research Progress on Rebound Tenderness after Nerve Blockade [J]. Chinese Journal of Pain Medicine, 2024, 30(06): 453-457.
[2] Ning Zhichao. Learning to Differentiate Acute Abdominal Conditions [J]. Family Medicine. Happy养生 (Health Tips), 2021, (07): 58.
