Musculoskeletal Impairment Signs & Symptoms

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the various physical signs and clinical symptoms of musculoskeletal impairment as documented by Stanley (2020a, 2020b).

Deformity

A physical sign of musculoskeletal impairment characterized by an abnormal shape or structure of a body part.

Exposed bone

A critical visual sign of musculoskeletal impairment that occurs following trauma.

Bleeding

An acute sign of musculoskeletal impairment often associated with traumatic injury.

Asymmetrical appearance

A musculoskeletal sign where one side of the body appears different in shape or alignment compared to the other.

Reduced range of motion

A common symptom where a joint or limb cannot be moved through its typical full extent.

Pain on movement

A symptom of musculoskeletal impairment where discomfort is elicited or worsened by physical activity.

Bruising

A sign of musculoskeletal injury involving skin discoloration from underlying blood vessel damage.

Swelling

A physical sign of musculoskeletal impairment involving an increase in size or puffiness in the affected area.

Tenderness

A sign where pain is felt specifically upon palpation or pressure to a certain area.

Difficulty weight bearing

A functional symptom of musculoskeletal impairment where an individual is unable to stand or walk using the affected limb.

Reduced or altered sensation

A sign of musculoskeletal impairment often manifesting as specific sensations such as pins and needles.

Spasms

Involuntary muscle contractions that occur as a sign of musculoskeletal impairment.

Altered motor function

A sign of musculoskeletal impairment involving changes or deficits in the ability to move muscles or limbs.

Compromised circulation

A musculoskeletal sign indicated by extremities that are pale, cool, or numb distal to a fracture or injury.

Decreased or absent peripheral pulses

A serious sign of musculoskeletal impairment indicating potential vascular compromise distal to the injury site.