Abstract: A method and apparatus for leak testing a closed container having a substantially flexible wall structure wherein a compressive force is applied to the wall structure such that the wall structure is displaced from a first position to a second position. The compressive force is maintained for a pre-determined first period of time to stabilize the container wall structure. After the stabilization period, the compressive force is released wherein the wall structure commences recovery from the second position toward the first position. The wall structure recovery from the second position is measured at a pre-determined second period of time.