What are the most common signs and symptoms of a fracture?

The most common signs and symptoms of a fracture include swelling and discoloration. When a bone fractures, it typically leads to inflammation and swelling in the affected area due to trauma and the body's inflammatory response. Discoloration often occurs as blood vessels break and blood seeps into surrounding tissues, causing bruising that may not be visible immediately but develops over time.

Pain is a common symptom as well, but it can vary in intensity depending on the type and location of the fracture. While weakness and numbness may occur, especially if nerves are affected, they are not primary indicators of a fracture. Similarly, redness and heat can indicate an infection or inflammation but are less specific to fractures. If you are assessing for a fracture, observing for swelling and discoloration is critical, as they are more directly associated with bone injuries.