Which of the following is a common complication of untreated soft-tissue injuries?

Untreated soft-tissue injuries can lead to a range of complications, and one of the most significant is infection. This occurs because when the skin and underlying tissues are damaged, they create an entry point for bacteria and other pathogens. If these injuries, such as cuts, lacerations, or punctures, are not properly cleaned and cared for, the risk of bacterial infection increases substantially.

Infection can further complicate the healing process, potentially leading to symptoms like increased pain, redness, swelling, and fever. In severe cases, untreated infections can result in systemic complications, such as sepsis, which can be life-threatening. Proper treatment, including cleaning the wound, applying appropriate dressings, and administering antibiotics if necessary, can greatly reduce the risk of infection and promote proper healing.

The other options, while they are associated with different types of injuries and complications, do not directly stem from untreated soft-tissue injuries in the same way that infection does. Fractures and sprains are types of injuries themselves, and arthritis is a long-term condition often related to joint issues rather than soft-tissue injuries.