Dislocation is characterized by a bone being forced out of its normal position and typically requiring reduction.

Dislocation is characterized by a bone being forced out of its normal position and typically requiring reduction.

• A. Dislocation
• B. Subluxation
• C. Contusion
• D. Sprain

Answer: (A)

Dislocation is about a bone being forced completely out of its normal position within a joint, so the joint surfaces are no longer in contact. This disrupts joint stability and function and usually requires a reduction to realign the bones and restore proper articulation. Subluxation is a partial displacement where the joint surfaces still touch, so it’s less severe and may not always need full reduction. Contusion is a bruising injury to soft tissue with no joint displacement, while a sprain is an injury to ligaments with the joint still in normal alignment. That complete displacement and need for realignment make dislocation the correct term.