Final answer:
Swelling in a muscle felt through palpation will typically be tender, firm, and possibly warm due to inflammation. Proper stretching can prevent such swelling. Persistent swelling could indicate more serious health issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
When palpating a swollen muscle, it will typically feel tender, possibly firm or tight, compared to a normal, uninflamed muscle. This swelling is often accompanied by pain, and the area may feel warmer than surrounding tissues due to inflammation and increased blood flow as the body responds to injury or strain. Following a warm-up and stretching routine before exercise can help prevent injuries that lead to muscle swelling. If swelling is persistent, it can indicate issues like a musculoskeletal injury, an infection, or even systemic conditions such as heart failure or kidney disease, as described in the case of the obese patient whose lack of physical activity may have compromised her skeletal muscle pump function, leading to swollen feet and ankles, fatigue, and other symptoms.