What are signs of an infected wound in the context of musculoskeletal injuries?

In the context of musculoskeletal injuries, signs of an infected wound typically include redness, increased warmth, swelling, and discharge. These symptoms indicate an inflammatory response to infection. Redness occurs due to increased blood flow to the area as part of the body’s immune response, while warmth is a result of this increased blood flow and metabolic activity at the site. Swelling, or edema, develops from fluid accumulation due to inflammation. Discharge may present as pus or other exudate, which can indicate the presence of pathogens and the body’s efforts to clear them.

Other options, while relevant to musculoskeletal injuries, do not specifically indicate an infection. Pain, tingling, and numbness can be associated with nerve involvement or injury, rather than infection. Palpable crepitus and joint stiffness typically refer to mechanical issues or joint pathology, not necessarily infection. Muscle weakness and atrophy might suggest disuse or chronic conditions but are not direct signs of an infected wound. Therefore, the presence of redness, warmth, swelling, and discharge are key indicators of infection in wounds related to musculoskeletal injuries.