Which symptom is common for a closed bone fracture?

Pain and tenderness are common symptoms associated with a closed bone fracture because when a bone breaks, it disrupts not only the bone itself but also the surrounding soft tissues, muscles, and nerves. This disruption leads to a significant pain response as the body reacts to injury. Tenderness occurs when pressure is applied to the affected area, as it indicates that the body is experiencing inflammation and distress from the injury.

When considering the other symptoms, severe swelling could occur in such injuries, but it is not as definitive as pain and tenderness. Visible bleeding typically indicates an open fracture where the bone breaks through the skin, which does not apply to closed fractures. Discolored skin is also not a reliable indicator since it can arise from various conditions unrelated to fractures, such as bruising or other types of trauma. Hence, while other symptoms may manifest, pain and tenderness remain the hallmark signs of a closed bone fracture.