Definition

A condition where a bone in a joint is partially dislocated, meaning it is not completely out of place but is not in its normal position either.

Example

The doctor diagnosed her with a subluxation in her shoulder after the injury.

Conversation

I went to the chiropractor yesterday because I felt some pain in my shoulder.

Did they say what was wrong?

Yeah, they mentioned a subluxation in one of my joints.

That sounds uncomfortable! I hope it gets better soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subluxation → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "luxare" (meaning to dislocate). The term describes a condition where a joint is partially dislocated or misaligned, being under a complete dislocation.

Memory Tip

Think of a joint that is 'under' ('sub-') a full dislocation ('luxare') — that's why subluxation refers to a partial dislocation.

Visually Confused Words