What is complete separation of a joint known as?

Complete separation of a joint refers to a dislocation, which occurs when the bones that form a joint are forced out of their normal position. Dislocations can happen due to various reasons, such as trauma, falls, or excessive force applied to a joint. In these cases, the ligaments that normally hold the joint together can be overstretched or torn, leading to a complete disconnection of the joint surfaces.

The other terms relate to different types of injuries: a fracture involves the breaking of a bone; subluxation is a partial dislocation where the joint surfaces are misaligned but still in contact; and a contusion is a bruise caused by blunt force, affecting soft tissue rather than joints. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurately diagnosing and treating joint injuries in medical contexts.