North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What type of injuries can occur from a strain?

1. Fractured bones

2. Injury to ligaments

3. Injury to muscles

4. Joint dislocations

The correct answer is: Injury to muscles

Strains specifically refer to injuries that occur to muscles or the tendons that connect muscles to bones. When a muscle is overstretched or torn—often due to an excessive load or an awkward movement—it results in a strain. Such injuries can lead to symptoms like pain, swelling, and limited range of motion in the affected area. Understanding the nature of strains is crucial for effective treatment and rehabilitation, which often involves rest, ice, and gradual strengthening exercises. While other injuries such as fractures, ligament sprains, and dislocations may occur from different types of trauma, they do not fall under the classification of strains. This distinction is key in both diagnosing injuries and determining appropriate treatment protocols in various situations.