New York State Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a common sign or symptom of a sprain?

1. Swelling

2. Deformity

3. Ecchymosis

4. Point tenderness

The correct answer is: Deformity

A sprain is an injury that occurs when ligaments, the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect bones at a joint, are stretched or torn. The common signs and symptoms associated with sprains typically include swelling, ecchymosis (bruising), and point tenderness at the site of the injury. Swelling occurs as a result of fluid leaking into the surrounding tissue due to the injury, while ecchymosis appears as blood vessels are damaged, leading to bruising. Point tenderness is a key indicator of the injury, as it reflects localized pain when pressure is applied to the affected area. In the case of a sprain, however, deformity is not typically a common symptom. Deformity often indicates a more severe injury, such as a fracture or dislocation, where the normal structure of the joint is visibly altered. This distinction helps to differentiate between types of injuries, where sprains primarily involve soft tissue and do not usually cause the visible changes seen in fractures. Therefore, identifying deformity as the option that does not align with the common signs and symptoms of a sprain is accurate.