Certified Medical Assistant Practice Exam

What is a strain?

1. A bone injury

2. A joint dislocation

3. A ligament injury

4. A muscle injury

The correct answer is: A muscle injury

A strain refers specifically to an injury that involves stretching or tearing of muscle fibers or tendon, which connects muscles to bones. When a muscle is overstretched or subjected to excessive force, it can become strained, typically causing pain, swelling, and limited movement in the affected area. This injury often occurs during physical activity or exercise when the muscle is not warmed up properly or when sudden, forceful movements are made. In contrast, the other options pertain to different types of injuries. Bone injuries involve damage to the bone structure, such as fractures or breaks. A joint dislocation occurs when the bones forming the joint are displaced from their normal position. A ligament injury, often referred to as a sprain, involves damage to the ligaments, which connect bones to other bones at a joint. Each of these injuries affects different tissues in the body, making it essential to understand the distinction between them in medical contexts.