Which term best describes an abnormal limb shape?

• A. Dislocation
• B. Sprain
• C. Contusion
• D. Strain

Answer: (B)

An abnormal limb shape comes from joint misalignment, which is a dislocation. When a joint is dislocated, the ends of the bones are forced out of their normal position, causing a visible deformity or unusual contour at the joint and usually significant pain and dysfunction.

In contrast, a sprain is damage to ligaments around a joint and may cause swelling and tenderness, but the overall limb alignment is typically preserved. A contusion is a bruise from blunt trauma, producing localized discoloration and tenderness without joint misalignment. A strain involves injury to muscle or tendon and presents with pain and weakness rather than an abnormal limb shape. Therefore, the term that best describes an abnormal limb shape is dislocation.