AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

In the case of a complete muscle tear, what is a common symptom?

1. Increased range of motion

2. Inability to use the muscle

3. Localized swelling

4. Minimal pain

The correct answer is: Inability to use the muscle

In the case of a complete muscle tear, the most common symptom is the inability to use the muscle. This occurs because a complete tear disrupts the muscle's structural integrity, severely impairing its ability to contract effectively. When the muscle fibers are entirely torn, they cannot transmit the signals necessary for movement, resulting in significant functional impairment in that specific area. Localized swelling might occur due to inflammation and tissue damage, but it does not represent the primary symptom of functional loss. Increased range of motion is unlikely, as a complete tear usually leads to restricted movement. Minimal pain is also not characteristic of a complete tear; typically, such an injury is associated with significant pain due to damage to muscle and surrounding tissues, although the severity of pain can vary. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for recognizing and responding to muscle injuries in a training context.