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Subluxation

By Jonathan Cluett, M.D., About.com

Updated: November 26, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: A condition that occurs when a joint begins to dislocate. Instead of the joint surfaces completely losing contact, a subluxation can be considered a "partial dislocation."

A subluxation can be the result of a trauma or acute injury. In these cases, the injury can be quite painful.

Subluxations can also occur as a result of loose joints. In patients with generalized joint laxity, their body may allow for joint subluxations without any trauma or injury. These patients often have no symptoms and may not need any treatment for joint subluxations. If these joint subluxations become symptomatic, treatment may be recommended.

Also Known As: Sublux
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