What type of injury occurs when an external force is applied to the body?

A direct injury occurs when an external force is applied to the body, resulting in damage to tissues such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, or bones at the point of impact. This type of injury is characterized by immediate pain and often visible signs like swelling, bruising, or limited range of motion, which are direct responses to the trauma.

In contrast, an indirect injury typically arises from internal mechanisms, such as muscle imbalances or inadequate preparation, rather than a direct impact. Overuse injuries, on the other hand, develop gradually due to repetitive strain and microtrauma from continuous activity without adequate rest. Soft tissue injuries encompass a broader category that includes both direct and indirect injuries affecting tissues such as skin, muscles, and tendons but does not specifically define the cause of injury. Therefore, identifying a direct injury is essential in understanding how trauma occurs as a result of external forces.