Rectal tone is the tightness of the muscles around the anus. It can be checked by inserting a gloved finger into the rectum and feeling for the tightness of the muscles. Rectal tone can be decreased in conditions such as fecal incontinence and rectal prolapse. It can be increased in conditions such as constipation and anal fissures.
Checking rectal tone is an important part of a physical examination. It can help to diagnose a variety of conditions and to assess the severity of these conditions. Checking rectal tone can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions.