American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

What is the definition of subluxation?

1. Complete dislocation of a joint

2. Partial dislocation of a joint

3. Fracture with separation of bone ends

4. Bone fracture without skin penetration

The correct answer is: Partial dislocation of a joint

Subluxation refers specifically to a partial dislocation of a joint, where the joint surfaces are misaligned but still make contact with each other to some degree. This condition can result from trauma, instability, or chronic conditions and is characterized by an incomplete displacement of the joint, which may lead to pain, swelling, and a limited range of motion. Understanding subluxation is crucial in orthopedics because it can often be differentiated from a complete dislocation, which involves a total separation of the joint surfaces. Recognizing these differences helps in diagnosing joint issues accurately and determining appropriate treatment strategies. In contrast to other options, a complete dislocation signifies that the joint surfaces are entirely separated, whereas a fracture with separation of bone ends involves a break in the bone structure. A bone fracture without skin penetration refers to a simple fracture, which is another distinct condition entirely. Thus, subluxation specifically pertains to the incomplete or partial misalignment of joint structures, aligning it with the definition that was chosen.