Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX USA) Practice

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Prepare for the COMLEX-USA with quizzes featuring flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Gear up for your osteopathic medicine exam!

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Which description defines a Grade 3 sprain?

  1. Stretching of the muscle

  2. Partial tear of the ligament

  3. Complete tear of the ligament

  4. Mild swelling without tearing

The correct answer is: Complete tear of the ligament

A Grade 3 sprain is characterized by a complete tear of the ligament, leading to significant instability in the affected joint. This level of sprain typically results in an inability to bear weight or use the joint and often presents with severe pain, swelling, and bruising. The complete rupture means that the fibers of the ligament are severed, compromising the structural support it provides to the joint. This is in contrast to lower-grade sprains, where ligaments may be overstretched or partially torn but maintain some degree of integrity, thus allowing for some stability in the joint. Understanding the distinctions among the grades of sprains is crucial for appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning in clinical practice.

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