What is the term for a perceptible change in an athlete's body that indicates injury or disease?

The term that accurately describes a perceptible change in an athlete's body indicating injury or disease is "sign." In the context of athletic training and medical terminology, a sign is an objective finding that can be observed by someone other than the athlete, such as a trainer or physician. Signs are measurable and visible characteristics, like swelling, bruising, or decreased range of motion, which indicate that an injury or condition exists.

On the other hand, a symptom is a subjective experience that is reported by the athlete, such as pain or fatigue. A diagnosis involves identifying the nature of the injury or disease based on the sign(s) observed and the symptoms reported. Prognosis refers to predicting the likely course and outcome of the injury or disease. Understanding these distinctions is essential for accurately assessing and treating athletic injuries.