In a patient with a tendon rupture, what physical exam findings are expected?

When examining a patient with a tendon rupture, one would expect to see localized swelling and pain at the site of the injury. Tendon ruptures typically lead to an inflammatory response, which manifests as swelling due to increased fluid in the area. This localized swelling is often accompanied by tenderness or pain, as the rupture disrupts the normal anatomy and function of the tendon.

The presence of pain indicates that the surrounding structures, like muscles and connective tissues, may also be affected. This finding aligns with the body's response to an injury, where pain serves as a warning signal prompting the individual to protect the affected area and seek further medical evaluation.

In contrast, symptoms like continuous numbness, limited movement without pain, or the presence of a fracture are not typically associated with a tendon rupture. Numbness could indicate nerve involvement, which is less common with a simple tendon injury. Limited movement without pain might suggest a different condition, such as a muscular issue or joint stiffness, and the presence of a fracture would indicate a bone injury rather than a tendon injury. Therefore, localized swelling and pain serve as key indicators when assessing a tendon rupture during a physical examination.