Rigidity of the abdomen
Key points
- Abdominal rigidity involves abnormal muscle tension or inflexibility of the abdomen, detected when touched or pressed.
- When there is a sore area in the abdomen, the pain becomes more intense as the hand presses against it and overcomes the muscular resistance.
- A patient's fear or nervousness about being touched (palpated) in the abdominal area is referred to as voluntary rigidity.
- Involuntary rigidity, usually caused by a physical condition, may affect one or both sides and may be associated with pain.
Alternative names
Abdominal rigidity
Definition
Abdominal rigidity involves abnormal muscle tension or inflexibility of the abdomen, detected when touched or pressed.
Considerations
When there is a sore area in the abdomen, the pain becomes more intense as the hand presses against it and overcomes the muscular resistance.
A patient's fear or nervousness about being touched (palpated) in the abdominal area is referred to as voluntary rigidity. It usually occurs on both sides of the abdomen. Involuntary rigidity, usually caused by a physical condition, may affect one or both sides and may be associated with pain.
nausea, Vomiting, abdominal tenderness, swelling, and pain often accompany abdominal rigidity.
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
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