We instinctively shield our abdomen when we are physically threatened, and we may feel vulnerable when someone puts his or her hand on our bare abdomen. Therefore, with an abdominal examination the ...

Doctors palpate the abdomen to check certain organs and feel for atypical masses or tenderness. Palpating the abdomen is often part of an abdominal physical examination. A doctor may perform a ...

Who Should Get a Digital Rectal Exam? You may need a digital rectal exam if you have rectal bleeding, abdominal or pelvic pain or a change in bowel habits. But studies have shown there is little ...