INSPIRATION/EXPIRATION BREATHING TEST

​TEST POSITIONING

The client may sit or stand.

The therapist stands next to the client.

ACTION

The client is instructed to breathe in and out normally, then take a deep breath followed by rapid expiration.

POSITIVE FINDING

Normal breathing that is rapid and shallow is indicative of a rib fracture.

Pain with deep inspiration may suggest a rib fracture, costochondral separation, or external intercostal muscle strain.

Pain with forced expiration may indicate costochondral separation or internal intercostal muscle strain.

CONSIDERATIONS & COMMENTS

​With a rib fracture or costochondral separation, there is also pain with coughing, sneezing, and torso movement.

Displaced rib fractures may jeopardize the function of the lungs and should be treated as a medical emergency.