Which description correctly defines a strain?

• A. Dislocation
• B. Fracture
• C. Sprain
• D. Strain — tendon or muscle stretched, torn or damaged

Answer: (D)

A strain is an injury to muscle or its tendon from overstretching or a forceful contraction. The description that a tendon or muscle is stretched, torn, or damaged fits this soft tissue injury, distinguishing it from other injuries. A dislocation means a bone has moved out of a joint, a fracture is a break in a bone, and a sprain involves ligaments around a joint. In strains you often feel pain with movement, weakness, and swelling. Treat with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, and seek care if there’s severe pain, deformity, numbness, or inability to move the area.