Which of the following findings would be classified as abnormal in a physical examination of the extremities?

Finding soft tissue tenderness during a physical examination of the extremities would be deemed abnormal because it indicates an underlying issue, such as inflammation, injury, or infection. Normally, soft tissues around joints and muscles should not be tender to the touch, as tenderness may suggest trauma or a pathological condition that requires further investigation.

In contrast, the other findings—no edema, normal circulation-sensation-movement (CSMT), and full range of motion—are consistent with a healthy extremity. The absence of edema suggests that there is no swelling due to injury or fluid accumulation, normal CSMT indicates that the nerves and blood flow are intact, and a full range of motion means that the joints are functioning properly without stiffness or pain. Together, these findings imply that the extremity is healthy, while soft tissue tenderness is a sign of potential distress or pathology.