This test tells us if the source of abdominal pain is the abdominal wall or the abdominal organs.
Positive
Carnett's Sign (increased pain) indicates that the abdominal wall is the source of abdominal pain.
Negative (decreased pain) indicates that the pain arises from an intra-abdominal organ.
Patient lies supine with arms crossed over chest; patient then lifts shoulders (or legs) off table to tighten rectus abdominus muscles. Changes in sensation of pain indicate source of pain.
