Which term refers to an injury at a joint where the bone is no longer in its normal position?

The term that refers to an injury at a joint where the bone is no longer in its normal position is dislocation. This occurs when the ends of the bones that form a joint are forced out of their normal alignment, which can cause significant pain, swelling, and loss of mobility in the affected joint.

Dislocation typically requires medical intervention to realign the bones correctly and may involve physical therapy to restore full function afterward. This condition is often seen in sports injuries and accidents.

While the term "luxation" can also describe a dislocation, it is less commonly used in everyday language compared to "dislocation." A fracture refers specifically to a break in a bone, while subluxation indicates a partial dislocation where the joint surfaces are misaligned, but not completely displaced. Understanding these nuances helps in identifying and effectively managing joint-related injuries.