rebound tenderness, a sign of inflammation of the peritoneum in which increased pain is elicited by the sudden release of the fingertips pressing on the abdomen. Most examiners check for rebound tenderness in the quadrant opposite the area of pain. One hand is used, with the fingers placed perpendicular to the plane of the abdomen. The area of pain may be diffuse or relatively sharply circumscribed. See also appendical reflex, peritonitis.
