What is a common sign of a fracture?

The common signs of a fracture include deformity, swelling, bruising, and an inability to use the affected limb. When a bone breaks, it often results in a visible deformity, where the limb may appear out of alignment or uneven. Swelling occurs as the body responds to the injury, leading to inflammation in the surrounding tissues. Bruising, or discoloration, is a result of blood vessels that may have been damaged at the site of the fracture, causing blood to leak into surrounding tissues. Additionally, a patient may experience an inability to use the affected limb due to pain, instability, or mechanical obstruction from the fracture itself, making movement difficult or impossible. These symptoms together create a clear picture that indicates a fracture has occurred, which is why this answer is the most representative of the condition.