Which finding is commonly present in a fracture?

Which finding is commonly present in a fracture?

• A. Deformity often present, but not always
• B. Numbness without pain
• C. It is always painless
• D. No swelling occurs

Answer: (A)

Fractures typically disrupt bone and surrounding tissues enough to cause pain and swelling, and if the bone ends shift, deformity appears. Deformity is common when there is displacement, but not universal—many fractures are nondisplaced or located where visible deformity isn’t obvious. Pain and swelling are more consistent findings because of injury to bones, soft tissues, and possible bleeding. Numbness can occur if a nerve is affected, but fractures aren’t defined by numbness without pain, and they aren’t typically painless. No swelling is also not reliable, since swelling is a common response to fracture. Therefore, deformity is often present, but not always, best matches the typical presentation.

Fractures typically disrupt bone and surrounding tissues enough to cause pain and swelling, and if the bone ends shift, deformity appears. Deformity is common when there is displacement, but not universal—many fractures are nondisplaced or located where visible deformity isn’t obvious. Pain and swelling are more consistent findings because of injury to bones, soft tissues, and possible bleeding. Numbness can occur if a nerve is affected, but fractures aren’t defined by numbness without pain, and they aren’t typically painless. No swelling is also not reliable, since swelling is a common response to fracture. Therefore, deformity is often present, but not always, best matches the typical presentation.